Rucksack saves 80-year-old's life

Mr Mallaby was moved to safety until mountain rescuers arrived

A rucksack saved the life of an 80-year-old North Yorkshire man after he lost his footing when mountain walking in Austria.

John Mallaby, from Oulston, near Coxwold, had already fallen hundreds of feet down a hill at Zell am See when his rucksack snagged on bushes.

He was left hanging for three hours over a 100ft drop on to rocks below.

A man who lives nearby heard cries for help and moved Mr Mallaby to safety until professional rescuers arrived.

Mr Mallaby is recovering from cuts and bruises and is said to be embarrassed by his ordeal.

Mr Mallaby, who was on holiday on his own following the death of his wife last year, has had years of experience walking in the mountains.