Police name climber killed on Ben Nevis
Police have confirmed the details of a man who died after falling on Raeburn's Buttress on the North Face of Ben Nevis on Monday.
He was Mark Phillips, 51, from Spean Bridge, Environmental Health Officer with Highland Council.
It is understood that police have launched an investigation and the Ministry of Defence has launched an internal inquiry into claims that Mr Phillips, who had suffered serious head injuries in a 160ft fall, died after falling during an operation to winch him on board an RAF Lossiemouth-based Sea King helicopter
The wife of Mr Phillips, Caroline, has issued the following statement through 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.”
Mrs Phillips added: "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."
The family have asked the media to respect their privacy and allow them to grieve in peace.
