Searches continuing amid adverse weather for hillwalker missing on Skye

Efforts to trace a missing hillwalker are continuing on the Isle of Skye, more than three weeks after he was last seen.

Matthias Beutin was spotted at Blaven car park, near Loch Slapin, around 11.30am on Thursday, October 9.

The 57-year-old had planned to climb Bla Bheinn, but has not been in contact with his family since.

A large-scale search operation was launched shortly after the German tourist was reported missing, involving the Skye Mountain Rescue Team, the Search and Rescue Dog Association (SARDA), Kintail Mountain Rescue, and the Royal Air Force Mountain Rescue Service.

Despite extensive efforts over the first weekend, teams were unable to locate him.

Matthias Beutin has been reported missing. Police Scotland

Since then, searches have continued whenever weather conditions have allowed, with smaller groups heading into the Bla Bheinn area during breaks in the rain and high winds.

Skye MRT volunteers have now dedicated more than 500 hours to the search, supported by colleagues from Glenelg, Kintail, SARDA, SARAA, RAF, and Police Mountain Rescue, as well as Coastguard helicopters.

An upcoming full team search is expected to be called off due to high winds, low cloud and rain.

Skye Mountain Rescue Team said: “All of this work is carried out by volunteers giving their time to help others, and we’re deeply grateful for the continued support and encouragement we’ve received from the local community on Skye and from many others further afield.

“Efforts will continue as conditions allow, and our thoughts remain with Matthias’s family throughout this difficult time.”

Matthias is described as white, around 5ft 9in tall, of average build, with short dark hair.

When last seen, he was wearing a blue waterproof jacket, brown waterproof trousers, and dark brown Meindl trekking shoes, and was carrying a small black and orange backpack.

Police Scotland continues to liaise closely with mountain rescue teams as the search continues.