A man has died after plunging 230ft from a mountain ridge in the Lake District.
The alarm was raised at Sharp Edge, Blencathra on Thursday around noon.
Keswick Mountain Rescue Team volunteers recovered his body which was transported to their base via an air ambulance.
They thanked other fell walkers who helped and has offered condolences to the deceased’s family.
In a post on social media, the unit said: “Our first call-out of the year had a tragic ending after a man died in a 70m fall from Sharp Edge.
“A Keswick team member already on Blencathra made his way to the scene above Scales Tarn, along with the crew of Helimed 58, who landed nearby.
“Keswick team recovered the body to H58 who then airlifted the man to Keswick MR Base.”
David Smith wrote on the Facebook post: “The weather yesterday was -2C in Keswick town centre.
“Blencathra (which I have climbed) must have been treacherous, only suitable for experienced ice climbers (with ropes) and the right kit.
“This is a tragic reminder some walks need respecting especially Sharp Edge which has claimed lives over the years even on summer days.”
Ann Clark commented: “Very sorry that you’ve had such a horrible start to your year. At least the family and friends of the deceased will have closure.
“I hope no one else attempts Sharp Edge or any of the other precipitous ridges whilst we have such inclement weather making conditions very dangerous for even the most experienced.”
Kevin McCluskey said: “Very sad ending. As a regular walker I am truly grateful that mountain rescue teams are available 24/7 but I hope I never meet any of them professionally.
“Thoughts go out to the team members involved as I’m sure some of them will be affected by the outcome.”
Sharp Edge, one of the ridges of Blencathra, is described by renowned Lakeland writer Alfred Wainwright as a “rising crest of naked rock of sensational and spectacular appearance”.
Keswick Mountain Rescue Team said every year people get into trouble on the ridge.
Between 1949 and 2018 there were 11 fatalities, and in October 2021 a man died traversing it as part of his preparations to scale Mount Kilimanjaro.
