Three teenagers have been rescued from the slopes of Slieve Donard at the weekend after getting into difficulty during challenging conditions.
The Mourne Mountain Rescue Team said 14 of their volunteers were despatched at around 5.44pm on Saturday night to assist the walkers who had got into trouble while trying to descend the mountain.
Video footage shared by the mountain rescue team on social media showed the moment those attending the rescue led the group back down the mountain while being battered by wind and rain.
In a statement on social media a spokesperson for the group said: “The 16-year-olds set off at midday for an adventure on the Glen River but having reached the Ice House, got tempted by the sight of Slieve Donard on what seemed a reasonable afternoon.
“While ascending Slieve Donard direct, with conditions and light deteriorating, one of the group decided to return to Newcastle.
“The other two persevered and reached the summit, only to come unstuck due to conditions on their attempt at a direct descent. Without any knowledge of the peak, the pair wisely found their way back to the summit shelter and called for help.
“As the team responded, it became clear that one of the party had reached safety and only two remained at the summit.
“When reached just after 1930hrs, the remaining casualties were in challenging conditions and were promptly treated for exposure, refuelled, rewarmed and prepped for a walk out.
“By 2110hrs all had reached team vehicles for a transfer to road access, base and further care (fish & chips!)
“We wish the adventurers well and with lessons learnt look forward to seeing them back in the hills.
“A total of 14 members responded and stood down at 2220hrs – with a special note of thanks to McCanns Chippy for some greatly appreciated sustenance.”