A group of nine cavers needed rescuing after snow drifts descended on the area.

The Cave Rescue Organisation (CRO) was called out by Cumbria Police at 11:50pm on Saturday, February 10 once it was reported that the party was overdue.

They worked alongside fellow rescue teams from Swaledale Mountain and Upper Wharfedale Fell to deal with the incident at County Pot, a popular entrance into the Ease Gill system.

A CRO spokesman: "Initially, snow drifts made accessing Bull Pot Farm, the base for exploring the system, difficult with CRO4 the only vehicle able to pass.

"Due to the large number in the group, and potential for a long drawn out search of the wider system, additional support was requested."

The Westmorland Gazette: The team making the long trip between Bull Pot Farm and the cave systemThe team making the long trip between Bull Pot Farm and the cave system (Image: Cave Rescue Organisation)

Cumbria Highways also responded, clearing the snow drifts and enabling easier access to Bull Pot Farm.

"Two underground teams were deployed to carry out a hasty search of the route that had been given whilst surface personnel set up a control room and communication relay," the CRO added. 

"Search teams located the overdue group who were cold and tired."

The Westmorland Gazette: A snow drift in the area added an extra layer of complexity to the call outA snow drift in the area added an extra layer of complexity to the call out (Image: Cave Rescue Organisation)

With support and encouragement from the collective teams, the overdue party was able to make their way out of the cave.

"After a quick assessment by surface members, they were able to make the long walk back to Bull Pot Farm, where hot food and drinks were provided."

The CRO applauded the party for being properly organised ahead of making the trip and used the incident as an example for other people thinking of exploring the region.

They said: "The party were well equipped and had an effective call out arrangement which ensured the alarm was raised promptly."

Red Rose Cave and Pothole Club were thanked by the teams for allowing the use of Bull Pot Farm.

"Thanks also to the members of UWFRA and SMRT who gave up warm beds in the early hours to make the journey across, helped carry equipment and assisted the weary cavers in making their way safely back across the fell."