A man was taken to hospital by helicopter after crashing his mountain bike in the Lake District this week. 

Keswick Mountain Rescue Team were called out to Blencathra on the evening of July 30 after one of the three mountain bikers took a tumble on a steep and tricky descent. 

Keswick MRT said: "In light of the potentially serious nature of the incident, the reported mechanism of injury and the likely need for a rapid evacuation a Coastguard helicopter was requested to assist. The position of the casualty on very steep ground made assessment and treatment awkward.

"Coast Guard helicopter Rescue 199 from Prestwick landed close by and the crew arrived on scene to assist. After being given some pain relief the casualty was carefully lifted onto a vacuum mat, to prevent further movement, and onto a stretcher to enable a carry to the helicopter. The man was then flown to Newcastle RVI for treatment."

The man underwent successful surgery at Newcastle RVI after suffering eight broken ribs, a snapped T6 and some fractures to the neck.