AN MAN with an artistic bent sparked a search and rescue operation after becoming absorbed in painting a Lakeland view and losing track of his companions.

The incident took place last week, September 17, by Wastwater Lake.

The Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team were called at 5.11pm.

A spokesman for the team said: " The team leader was alerted by the police about a 79-year-old male who had separated from his walking party.

"Because of the age of the gentleman and the concerns from his family and friends, a team member who lives in Wasdale valley was tasked to meet with the informants in Nether Wasdale.

"All local pubs were called to make sure the gentleman had not called in for refreshments but came back negative.

"Eventually the man was found by the team member who had driven herself to the last known location.

"It turned out that he had moved away from the roadside slightly to find a nice quiet spot to take in the wonderful scenery and paint the view."