Search for 'experienced' hillwalker who failed to return from hike on Ben Nevis

A search is under way for an experienced hillwalker who failed to return from a planned hike on Ben Nevis.

Brian Mcgillicuddy was last seen around 4am on Thursday in Glasdrum Road area of Fort William.

It is believed the 64-year-old intended to walk up to the CIC Hut on Ben Nevis and may have been on Orion Face Direct.

He was reported missing after failing to return from the hike.

Brian is described as 6ft 1ins tall, of slim build, with short grey/white hair. When last seen, he was wearing a white climbing helmet, a dark blue jacket, white jeans and blue and red gaiters.

Sergeant Paige Macdonald said: “Brian is an experienced hill walker, but he did not return from his planned hike and has not been heard from since.

“I am appealing to anyone who may have seen someone matching Brian’s description to please come forward with information, no matter how small it may seem.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 3544 of February 19, 2026.