Father pays tribute to 'amazing' student who died in Alps climbing accident

STV

The father of a Scottish medical student who plunged 1300ft to his death in a climbing has paid tribute to his son who "loved life".

Robbie Cammack, 19, from Aberlour in Speyside, was tackling the Frendo Spur on the north face of the Aiguille du Midi when both he and his climbing partner were caught in a storm.

The Edinburgh University medicine student was trapped on the mountain for two days as search and rescue teams could not reach him due to the weather.

It is believed he slipped from the belay holding him in place and fell 1300 feet to his death.

His father Adrian Cammack said that his son, whose body was recovered from the mountain by a search team on Friday, was "just generally amazing".

Mr Cammack added: "Robbie was well-known throughout Moray for his achievements, both academic and sporting.

"Robbie had a lifelong love of the hills where he would spend his spare time walking, running, mountain biking, climbing, skiing and snowboarding.

"Robbie loved life and brought a laugh and inspiration to so many people. He will be deeply missed by his sister Shona, younger brother Calum, his mother Gillian and myself."

The fifth year dux of Speyside High School began studying medicine at Edinburgh Univeristy in 2009, having achieved straight As in his studies.

He was named under-16 Scottish Hillrunning champion in 2006 and had also been an enthusiastic competitor in the Highland games circuit in the north east.

On arriving at university he became a very active member of the Edinburgh University Mountaineering Club and was recently appointed vice president of the club.

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