Mountain Rescue Team Appeals for Walkers to Settle Outstanding Hotel Debt
Two walkers are being urged to settle an unpaid hotel bill after being rescued from England's highest mountain in treacherous conditions. The incident occurred on December 29, when Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team was called to an avoidable seven-hour operation on Scafell Pike in Cumbria.
Rescue and Hospitality Offered
Once safely off the mountain, the two young men were taken in by the nearby Wasdale Head Inn. The manager, Steve, offered them food and a room at a 35 per cent discount, despite the late hour. However, the following morning, the walkers reportedly gave no thanks to staff and requested further reductions to the cost, as well as breakfast and transport from the hotel.
Four weeks later, the £130 bill remains unpaid, and the men have not contacted the hotel or the rescue team. Although the hotel has agreed to waive the fee, rescuers feel obliged to reimburse them to ensure future support.
Unfulfilled Promises and Missing Equipment
The walkers claimed they had left their money in a tent near Green Gable and agreed to send the payment later. However, a phone number they provided to the hotel did not work. Additionally, the pair failed to return head torches lent to them by volunteers during the descent.
A spokesman for the Wasdale team said: "We avoid judging those we rescue but struggle to understand when the rescued take advantage of hospitality provided by our supporters in the valley." The team has tried contacting the walkers to encourage them to settle the debt and return the equipment, but has received no replies.
Details of the Rescue Operation
The team was called to rescue the men from the Corridor Route just before the Bad Step, a steep scramble on the mountain. They had been found by a wild camper who heard shouts and sheltered them at his tent at Chriscliffe Knotts until rescuers arrived.
Upon arrival, volunteers provided extra warm jackets and microspikes to aid a safe descent. One walker had a previous knee injury that worsened during the descent, for which he was given simple pain relief.
Community Support and Funding
In response, the rescue team launched a social media appeal to cover the losses, raising over £2,200—more than required. A spokesperson stated: "The purpose of the post was to encourage the lost walkers to settle their hotel bill and return the missing torches... We have now received more than required."
Any additional funds will go towards the team's operational costs, which exceed £100,000 annually. The hotel has been willing to cover the loss, but rescuers aim to reimburse them to honour their promise and maintain good relations for future incidents.
Ongoing Concerns
The team also noted that a hospital crutch left in their vehicle by one of the walkers remains unclaimed. They continue to seek contact with the men to resolve these matters amicably.
