EMERGENCY services were alerted when a group of 19 walkers failed to reach their destination in Northumberland on Wednesday night.

Police were called at 7.40pm to help trace the group of 19 adults, from out of the area, who had been out on a hike in the Cheviot Hills.

When they failed to meet their bus at Langleeford, near Wooler as arranged the alarm was raised.

A co-ordinated search involved Northumbria Police officers, police helicopter and partners at the Mountain Rescue and Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

The walkers were all experienced and had suitable equipment for the conditions, however, there was concern due to lowering temperatures and failing light as the night was drawing in.

By 8.38pm, three of the walkers made their way to a farmhouse in Wooler and police were contacted.

By 9.27pm, the remaining walkers were all confirmed as accounted for having been located by the police helicopter near Langleeford.

One of the walkers suffered a minor leg injury during the incident but all were safe and well and declined medical assistance.

Chief Inspector Dave Gould, of Northumbria Police said: "Officers assisted in the search for this group with our partners and we were pleased that the incident ended positively with everyone safely accounted for.

"It is always advisable for walkers to leave route details which can assist the co-ordination of any subsequent searches."