Ex Snowdonia warden John Ellis Roberts dies in mountain fall

Mr Roberts was pronounced dead at hospital in Bangor

A former warden of Snowdonia National Park has died after falling from the mountainside.

John Ellis Roberts MBE, 70, from Betws y Coed, plunged 25ft on to a ledge at Dinas Cromlech near Llanberis.

Mountain rescue and an RAF Sea King helicopter were deployed at about 12:30 BST on Thursday and he was taken to hospital in Bangor.

Attempts were made to resuscitate Mr Roberts during the flight but he was pronounced dead at hospital.

Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team paid tribute, saying the "accident on one of the cliffs where he had diligently, over so many years, helped to save hundreds of lives is so tragic and poignant".

'Respected'

Chairman John Grisdale described Mr Roberts as the backbone of the rescue team for decades.

"John was respected as a knowledgeable and conscientious leader, hardworking and particularly respectful of the dangers on the mountain," he said.

"His practical contribution and his professional knowledge of the mountains have been priceless on so many occasions."

In a statement, the Snowdonia National Park Authority also said he would be greatly missed.

"Even at a very young age, he had a thorough knowledge of the area and its people and knew the mountains of Snowdonia like the back of his hand," it said.

The incident at Dinas Cromlech near Llanberis

"He used that information not only daily at work as a warden in the mountains but as a mountain leader for a multitude of mountain tours and in saving numerous lives of animals and people.

"Over the years he made a valuable contribution to the development of training for mountain guides and received several awards for his bravery in rescuing others.

"The authority extends its sincere condolences to his friends and family in their bereavement."