A GROUP of emergency volunteers used skis, a quad bike, a 4x4 and their own steam to reach a fell runner injured on top of a high peak.

Swaledale Mountain Rescue Team (MRT) were called to a tricky rescue when an experienced fell-runner slipped and injured her ankle on top of Fremington Edge, near Reeth in Swaledale.

Police called in the group to help get the woman back down from the peak, which is more than 400m high and was covered in snow at the time of the rescue on December 29.

The volunteers managed to rescue the runner by using all-terrain vehicles, including a quad bike, and scaled part of the way on skis, while she was kept warm on the exposed hill by friends.

After being assessed by the team she was evacuated by stretcher to a nearby team vehicle which negotiated the difficult terrain to the main road. A paramedic ambulance team then took her to hospital.

Steve Clough, rescue controller with Swaledale MRT said: “We were called to assist a fell runner who had slipped and damaged her ankle whilst running with friends on Fremington Edge.

“The runners were well-prepared; they quickly summoned help and kept the injured runner warm whilst team members made their way to her location.

“The runner was assessed on the hillside before being stretchered to our 4x4 ambulance to be driven off the moor.

“The callout is a good example of where good planning and carrying the right kit made all the difference and ensured that a simple accident did not become more serious.”

Swaledale Mountain Rescue Team are currently replacing their waterproofs; they are entirely funded by voluntary contributions.

To donate visit swaledalemrt.org.uk.