Tragedy as 'well-known' paraglider dies in Lake District crash

A 'well-known' paraglider has tragically died after crashing in the Lake District.

The paraglider crashed while in the air near Foule Crag on Blencathra on Sunday (February 25), Lancs Live reports. Cumbria Police received a 'number of calls from walkers' who had witnessed the incident.

A Coastguard helicopter transported members of the Keswick Mountain Rescue Team (KMRT) to the scene just after 2pm. The RAF Mountain Rescue Team and Great North Air Ambulance were also involved in the operation to try and rescue man.

Members of the KMRT were lowered to the paraglider pilot but sadly 'nothing could be done to save the man'. The man, whose identity has not yet been released, was a 'well-known figure' in the paragliding community in the Lake District.

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He was also a friend to members of the KMRT. In a statement on Facebook on Tuesday evening, KMRT said: "Cumbria Police received a number of calls from walkers who had witnessed a paraglider crash near Foule Crag on Blencathra.

"Helimed 58 and the Coastguard helicopter quickly deployed and lifted Keswick team members close to the casualty location. RAF Mountain Rescue Service were training in the area and also responded.

"A Helimed doctor and Keswick team member were lowered to the paraglider pilot but unfortunately nothing could be done to save the man Our thoughts and deepest condolences go to the man's family and friends.

He was a well known figure in the Lakes paragliding community, and a friend to a number of Keswick MRT members. Many thanks to the rapid response and support from H58, Coastguard helicopter and the RAF."

Responding to the post, Alastair Westle said: "It is extremely sad