Fell walker to scale peak daily

Former marine commando Craig Palmer has served in Iraq

A keen fell walker has taken on the challenge of scaling the Lake District's third highest peak regularly during the winter months.

As the newest recruit to a two-man team, Craig Palmer, 33, will climb to Helvellyn's 3,117ft (950m) summit daily every other week.

The former marine commando, from Ainstable near Penrith, will join existing fell assessor, Pete Collins.

They collect information for the popular telephone Weatherline service.

'A friendly face'

Mr Palmer said that as well as checking weather conditions they also offer advice to fellow walkers.

"We are a friendly face on the hill, advising people as to what is going on.

Helvellyn can be treacherous in the winter

"We're not there to police the mountain, it is there to be enjoyed by all.

"We have given ourselves four hours to get up and down, write a report to the Met Office and time to speak to people on the way."

The experienced fell walker and member of the local mountain rescue team added that he also hoped to be able to enjoy the scenery en route.

"I love the mountains when they are covered in snow. It really brings them to life again during the winter months."