Helvellyn daily 'running mate' sought

Fell assessors check conditions such a wind speed and temperature

A "running-mate" is being sought for a top job in the Lake District.

Two fell-top assessors take turns at making the daily climb to Helvellyn's 950m (3,114ft) summit to report on conditions for the Weatherline service.

The Lake District National Park Authority said conditions could change rapidly on the fells so the service was "almost beyond value" in helping to keep visitors and locals safe.

One of the posts, which run from December to Easter, is now vacant.

'Eyes and ears'

Jon Bennett, who has been a fell-top assessor for eight years, described it as a "dream job", even though he often has to brave snow drifts and wind chill temperatures down to -16C.

He said: "It's awesome being the eyes and ears of Helvellyn."

Liz Moss from the Lake District National Park Authority said: "We have some of the world's most spectacular mountains and keeping those venturing on them as safe as possible is paramount.

"Our communities and farmers also make good use of Weatherline.

"We get incredible feedback from grateful users."