Helvellyn (122)

Callout Date: 30/11/2025
Callout Time: 2:08 pm
Agencies Involved: Keswick MRT, Penrith MRT, Coast Guard Helicopter R199

Three friends were amongst many making an ascent of Helvellyn from Swirls on this lovely winter day. Overnight snow and ice and the passage of many feet had glazed the pitched path up the side of Browncove Crags making it treacherous for those without walking crampons or micro spikes. On the descent one of the three slipped and tumbled bashing his head in the process. Unable to continue they called 999 and requested Mountain Rescue. Thanks to the nurse who stopped to offer assistance with her partner.

Shortly afterwards a Keswick MRT member and his partner came upon the group and were able to offer shelter in the form of a small runner’s bothy bag. Despite only being a 2 person shelter all three managed to squeeze in which instantly improved the warmth, comfort and prospects for the casualty. Hypothermia is a serious risk with an immobile trauma casualty at any time of the year. Bothy bags/emergency shelters can be small and lightweight, they are great to shelter from the wind or rain whilst you eat your sandwiches and could save a life.

In light of the potential seriousness of the injury and weather conditions a Coast Guard helicopter was requested. Many thanks to Rescue 199 which arrived on scene just before the first team members. The Helicopter medic assessed the casualty before he was winched to the helicopter and taken to Carlisle Infirmary. The casualty’s friends were provided with micro spikes and walked back to Swirls car park. Thanks to Penrith who responded to our initially low numbers by sending five team members.

20 Keswick, 5 Penrith Team Members – 3 hours 2 minutes