SNOW PATROL

It has been called the ‘best job in the Lake District’ and it comes with the satisfaction of helping other hillwalkers stay informed and safe over winter. But to be a Fell Top Assessor takes dedication.

Every day from December to April (including Christmas Day), a team of three employed by the national park takes turns to climb England’s thirdhighest mountain. Come blizzard or shine, the assessors walk up Helvellyn to check ground conditions and take weather readings at the summit (3117ft), which are added to the Lake District

Weatherline forecast issued by the Met Office. They also share daily pictures from the mountain on Twitter (you can follow them @LakesWeather).

For many hillwalkers the weather updates are a vital service, but it’s only part of a Fell Top Assessor’s job. As part of their mission to promote safe winter walking, they also run guided walks and skills courses on Helvellyn.

On group taster days they teach basic snowcraft, including how to use crampons and an ice axe. Courses run from

December and cost £120 per adult (not including equipment hire).

MORE INFO: For forecasts, winter walking advice and course dates, head to lakedistrictweather line.co.uk