Fell top assessors are continuing to provide a vital service to the public through the continuing restrictions.

A spokesman for the team said: "We are continuing to provide the fell top reports for people undertaking their daily exercise during the lockdown. We would like to remind everyone that Government guidance stipulates that people should only exercise locally.

"The Lake District fells and most paths are now generally clear of snow. The snow is generally soft apart from where it has been compressed by walkers feet.

"If you do stray onto the snow, through choice or necessity, then winter equipment such as an ice axe, crampons and or microspikes will be very important in keeping you safe.

"With careful route choice Striding Edge can now be climbed without setting foot on snow with a clear line up the headwall on climbers left. This can be tricky to find in descent.

"The easier lines on the northern flank of the ridge are still very snowy / icy.

"Swirral Edge is still pretty wintery and the extra security of an ice axe, microspikes and or crampons will be appreciated by most walkers as there are a number of unavoidable snow patches above large drops to cross.

"There are still some large and unstable cornices above N through E aspects which are slumping in the warmer temperatures. Please give them a wide berth and advise others with less experience to do likewise

"As a result of the winter's freeze thaw action there is now also a lot of loose rock on the fells including on popular routes such as the Helvellyn edges.

"Although it felt like spring on the fells today we are still very much in the middle of the winter season so please be prepared with plenty of warm and waterproof layers, a reliable and accurate way of navigating, a headtorch and plenty of food and drink plus any winter equipment required to keep you safe on your chosen route.

"Please be conservative with your plans and know both your limits and also when to turn back."