Walkers have been warned not to use smartphones for directions after man became lost in treacherous conditions in the Lake District. More than 70 people took part in an operation to rescue him - with a mountain rescue team saying he was "very, very fortunate" to survive.
The man got into trouble on the ridge between Scafell Pike and Great End and first called for help at 6.30pm on Monday. However the poor weather conditions meant he was not located until 2.30pm the following day.
Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team was called in by Cumbria Police and made contact with him despite a weak mobile phone signal. They advised him to stay where he was and shelter from the wind.
But when they were unable to find him at that location a wider search was "mounted in incredibly difficult conditions". It had to be called off in the early hours, with the search resuming at first light.
WMRT said: "We rarely comment on a rescue, but in this case we would like to say he was very, very fortunate to have survived. We also have to say that Google Maps on smartphones are not suitable for navigating on the hills.
"They lack detail and of course will not work with a flat battery. There is no substitute for a map and compass and being able to use them. They can save one's life."
It said wet and misty weather made ground searches "very challenging". It meant helicopter support could not be brought in, the search team added.
The man, who had hypothermia along with knee, leg and foot injuries, was taken to hospital after being found on the east bank of Piers Gill. A total of nine rescue teams were involved in the operation to rescue him along with five search dogs and two drones.
Donations to the volunteers at Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team can be made on their JustGiving page HERE. Find out more at their website.
