Neil Gillingham: Body found in Glencoe identified as missing hill walker

A body found in Glencoe has been identified as missing hill walker Neil Gillingham.

The 43-year-old, from Kilmarnock, was found dead on Stob Coire Sgreamhach on Saturday.

Mr Gillingham had been reported missing last Sunday after he was last spotted near the summit of Stob Coire Nam Beith.

A mountain search mission was stood down on Wednesday due to weather conditions, however, it was resumed days later.

Police say Mr Gillingham’s family have been made aware and are being supported by officers.

His death comes after a spate of mountain fatalities across Scotland with another six people losing their lives over the past two weeks.

Mountain fatalities: A total of seven people have died over the past fortnight. Facebook

Sergeant Keith Almond said: “Our thoughts are with Neil’s family at what is a very difficult time for them.

“Officers would like to pass on their thanks to the mountain rescue teams, HM Coastguard helicopter crews and members of the public who assisted with the searches.

“We would also like to thank all those who shared and responded to our appeal.”

Earlier this week a 28-year-old man died on Ben Nevis after getting into difficulty and 23 people had to be rescued off the mountain.

Members of the Army also provided support to the stranded walkers however, two soldiers, aged 29 and 37, were injured during the mission and had to be taken to hospital for treatment.

In the weeks prior, a 61-year-old man lost his life on Ben More, Crianlarich, on February 27, shortly before a 54-year-old man died on March 1 on An Teallach in Dondonnell.

On March 2, a 47-year-old man died on Bidean Nam Bian in Glencoe and three days later a man, 50, died on Anoach Mor in Lochaber.

A 62-year-old man also lost his life while climbing Creag Meagaidh, Cairngorm, on March 7.