FOR the second week running Okehampton's branch of the Dartmoor Search and Rescue team were involved in a major rescue operation.

Two walkers were rescued from Dartmoor during the night of Saturday, September 6 after becoming lost and disorientated.

The two men, both aged 23 and from Plymouth, had set off from Lake at 2pm with the aim of completing a circular route of around five miles.

However, as the weather drew in and the light faded the walkers, who had no map or compass, soon became lost.

The mist descended on the moor leaving visibility at only a few metres, while there were occasional outbreaks of heavy rain.

The walkers managed to find shelter by a rocky outcrop and contacted the emergency services at 9pm but were unable to give their position on the moor.

The police called out sections of the Dartmoor Rescue Group from Okehampton and Tavistock.

The North Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team, from Okehampton, reported that, despite poor and intermittent mobile phone communication, they were able to glean sufficient information from the missing walkers to determine their probable route and deploy search teams.

The walkers were able to give a clearer fix on their location after the search teams and police vehicles flashed their lights and sounded their horns.

Shortly after midnight the walkers reported hearing the horns and the search teams were directed towards them.

The NDSRT found them shortly after on Hunt Tor and transported them back to Lake.

The men were cold, wet and greatly relieved to have been found.

Paul Vachon, NDSRT controller, said: 'This incident illustrates the importance of carrying essential equipment such as a map and compass when trekking on Dartmoor.

'If going on longer routes, a torch, survival bag and waterproof clothing should also be taken.

'Also, tell someone where you are planning to go and what time you expect to return.

'Dartmoor is notorious for sudden changes in the weather so check the reports before you plan your route.

'Do not rely on mobile phones — there are many places where you cannot get a signal.'