If you’re a fan of roaming the Lake District’s unique and sometimes testing fells in all weathers then this could be the job for you.
The Lake District National Park is inviting applications from Winter Mountain Leaders to join its team of Fell Top Assessors who provide first-hand weather updates and safety advice for fell-walkers during the winter months.
The service depends on a team of professionals to hike up one of England’s highest peaks, Helvellyn, from December through to April to obtain weather readings and assess walking conditions.
The successful candidate will complete the team of three assessors who share their up-to-the-minute reports with visitors via the trusted Lake District Weatherline service and their avid Twitter followers (@lakesweather).
In addition to the daily hikes the new recruit will also deliver winter skills courses. This involves teaching others how to understand and judge snow conditions for safe winter walking. Applicants should possess a Winter Mountain Leader qualification and ideally a Mountain Instructor Certificate.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for someone who really loves the beauty and challenges of our fabulous fells,” said National Park Fell Top Assessor Graham Uney. “It’s incredibly satisfying providing a service that is valued by so many people.”
He continued: “With the safety of our visitors being our top priority, this is a key job and will be an immensely fulfilling role for the right person. They’ll find a great welcome and the satisfaction of being part of team of real enthusiasts.”
Last winter Graham and his colleagues helped promote a #summitsafely campaign providing top tips for walkers who tackled the fells in sometimes treacherous conditions. The #summitsafely education will continue through the Winter Skills Courses which are due to start again later this year.
Image shows a Lake District National Park Fell Top Assessor heading up Helvellyn to assess the weather conditions.
