Police are investigating after a climber died during an operation to rescue him on Ben Nevis. Mark Phillips aged 51 from Spean Bridge, had fallen approximately 50m while climbing in the Raeburn’s Buttress area on the north face of the mountain on Monday (24 Feb). It is understood that he sustained serious injuries during the fall but was still attached to the rope and his climbing partner who was able to call the rescue services. A helicopter from RAF Lossiemouth and the Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team attended the scene and at some point during the operation to try and airlift Mr Phillips, he fell again. Police said a report would be sent to the procurator fiscal and that the incident was being investigated.
Mr Phillips wife Caroline issued the following statement via the Police. “On 25th February my beloved husband, Mark, was enjoying the superb conditions the Scottish Highlands were affording. He had spent the previous few days climbing and walking in the hills with friends. Tragically that day he sustained fatal injuries following an incident on Ben Nevis.
“Mark and I together with our son, Ruaridh, had moved to the Highlands about 12 years ago so as to live amongst the hills and community we had got to love.
“Mark was a loving father and husband and will be sorely missed by us and his many friends and work colleagues. Ruaridh and I thank them all for their support.
“I have noted certain speculation in the press surrounding Mark’s death. I have entire confidence in the police and the process and I do not want to indulge such speculation.”
It is understood that Mr Phillips worked for the Highland Council in Fort William as an Environmental Health Officer. The Council has paid tribute to him.