Hillwalkers urged to 'be prepared' following number of rescues

Hillwalkers have been urged to “be prepared for all eventualities” following a number of mountain rescue incidents.

Police and Mountain Rescue Teams have been called out to a number of incidents since the start of October where people have become lost due to fading light.

On Sunday, a man and a teenage boy became lost in the Spean Bridge area around 6.20pm and were walked safely off the hill with mountain rescue assistance.

Later that same day, a man and woman without torches became lost in the Glencoe area around 11pm.

Twelve mountain rescue volunteers located the pair, who were then walked to a safe area to be airlifted from the hill.

Nobody was injured during the two incidents.

Inspector Nick Hough, based in Fort William, said: “The change of seasons as we move into the colder months with shorter daylight hours brings additional challenges to those going to enjoy the expanse of areas across the Highlands.

“We’d ask the public to be mindful of their own skills and experience, and always be prepared for all eventualities. It is crucial that you are prepared.

“Plan the route you are going to walk and consider whether it is safe and you have the ability to complete it safely; do not go beyond your ability. Scottish mountains by their very nature are extremely unpredictable so take precautions, plan ahead and be aware of, and have respect for, the Outdoor Access Code.

“If you do find yourself in need of assistance because of being lost, injured, or in an emergency when outdoors, then phone 999, ask for police then Mountain Rescue. You will be helped.”