A ROCK climber in his 70s has died after falling unconscious in the Lake District.

Keswick Mountain Rescue team was called out to Bram Crag Quarry at 3.30pm on Thursday.

A spokesman from Keswick Mountain Rescue said: "A man in his late 70s was rock climbing with friends on a beautiful warm sunny day, clipping bolts in Bram Crag Quarry.

"On their third climb of the day the belayer on the ground suddenly felt a weight come onto the rope as, without warning, the man collapsed unconscious. The casualty was just above a ledge so it was not possible to lower him to the ground.

"The ground party managed to get up to him by re-climbing the route and as he wasn’t breathing started CPR. On arrival the team assisted in the lowering of the man to the ground where he had immediate medical attention.

READ MORE: Keswick Mountain Rescue Team called to Halls Fell, Blencathra

"Tragically the man had no signs of life. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies go out to the friends and family of the man.

"In light of the circumstances the North West Air Ambulance and coastguard helicopters were requested.

"Once the situation became clear these were stood down. Many thanks to both for responding."

Twenty team members were called out and the rescue lasted two hours and thirty-seven minutes.