Three climbers injured in an avalanche on Ben Nevis have had a "lucky escape", say mountain rescuers.

Police received a report of an avalanche on the north face of the UK's tallest mountain at around 12.15pm on Saturday.

Coastguard rescue helicopters attended, along with volunteers from the Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team.

They rescued the three injured mountain climbers, who were then taken to Belford Hospital in Fort William for treatment.

A police spokesperson said: "Approximately 12pm on Saturday, February 4, a report was received by police of an avalanche on Ben Nevis.

"Rescue helicopters from HM Coastguard assisted Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team with the rescue of three injured climbers who are subsequently receiving medical attention at the Belford Hospital in Fort William for what is believed to be non-life threatening injuries."

Posting on their Facebook page, Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team said: "A lucky escape for three climbers avalanched on the north face of Ben Nevis this afternoon.

"With 30cm of fresh snow and more falling, the avalanche risk is considerable - plan carefully if you are heading out."