A fisherman’s cry of excitement at catching a large fish was confused for a cry for help by two passers-by leading to a search by Coniston Mountain Rescue and Cumbria Police.
Two members of the public had been walking in the area near Blelham Tarn on Wednesday afternoon when they heard a male, who appeared to be forcefully calling for help.
They went to see if they could find the person but couldn’t find them and they didn’t hear anything else to indicate that someone was in need.
As they were worried, they called Cumbria Police who then called Coniston MRT for support.
The caller was adamant that it wasn’t a farmer rounding up sheep – which the MRT says can occasionally be mistake for a cry for help.
Coniston MRT said: “Two Land Rovers were deployed to the location, whilst two other team members went direct.
“On arrival there were various parties congregated, which included a policeman, due to the possibility of a potential serious incident, the local farmer and his wife, and three fishermen.
“It transpired that the farmer had searched the area without finding anyone who required assistance, and then went to ask the fishermen who had been on Blelham Tarn fishing.
“One of the gentlemen had actually caught quite a large fish and perhaps vocalised his excitement rather enthusiastically.
“He apologised for causing the inconvenience and worry to everyone, but it wasn’t his fault at all. Neither can the caller be blamed.
“This was simply a member of the public expressing a valid concern with good intent, and fortunately no one was hurt.”
The team, which included 14 members of Coniston MRT and the Cumbria Police, made the unanimous decision to stand down at this point.
“Our thanks go to the farmer and his wife for their help too.”