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The Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team (WMRT) has expressed surprise after a public fundraising effort raised over £38,000, following their decision to pay an unpaid hotel bill on behalf of two hikers. These two young men required assistance during an “avoidable” seven-hour rescue on Scafell Pike in the Lake District on 29 December. The incident prompted the intervention of WMRT, a volunteer mountain rescue group.
After being taken in by the Wasdale Head Inn, the hikers left without settling their bill and provided false contact information, an action that Richard Warren from WMRT described as unprecedented in his four decades of experience. Attempts by the rescue team to reach the individuals through the 999 call number resulted in the line being immediately disconnected once the caller identified themselves. Despite this unusual occurrence, Warren emphasized that the rescue team does not pass judgment on those they assist.
Once WMRT paid the outstanding £130 to cover the hotel costs, the remainder of the donated funds, which have now exceeded £38,000, will support the mountain rescue team’s ongoing efforts. Warren noted the incredible scope of support coming from multiple countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, the Isle of Man, France, and Spain. He described the generosity as uplifting for the volunteers and staff involved, expressing the team’s deep gratitude.
Nigel Burton, proprietor of the Wasdale Head Inn, acknowledged disappointment at the situation but reaffirmed their commitment to helping mountain visitors in need. He remarked, “We’re really disappointed but there’s no point being angry, we’ve got to move on,” while also highlighting the overwhelming public kindness they have witnessed. Warren advised future walkers to consult the Adventure Smart UK website to check weather and equipment requirements before venturing into the fells, aiming to prevent similar rescues in the future
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