Concern is growing for a London man missing on Scotland’s highest mountain despite a major land and air search yesterday.
Kyle Knox, 23, was last seen before setting out on a planned expedition onto Ben Nevis at around 10am on Monday.
A search began on Tueday afternoon after he failed to return to his accommodation, and was scaled up yesterday. .
However three mountain rescue teams and specialist police units were unsuccessful in finding any trace of him yesterday.
Mountaineers battled “horrendous” conditions in their search for the missing man, combing various parts of the mountain as well as Glen Nevis.
The operation also marked the final search and rescue operation for RAF Lossiemouth helicopter Rescue 137 who were called to Lochaber on Tuesday night after Mr Knox had been reported missing.
The RAF crew returned yesterday morning to help transport rescuers onto the mountain, before handing over to the new Inverness based search helicopter Rescue 951 operated by Bristow at around 11am.
Members of Lochaber, Glencoe and the RAF mountain rescue teams were all involved in the search, as well as a specialist police dog unit.
Last night, a spokesman for Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team said: “Despite a massive search in at times horrendous conditions, we were not able to locate the missing person.
“Teams searched on foot to the summit, Corrie Eoghainn, Five Finger Gully and the lower slopes, as well as our new friends in Rescue 951 flying for several hours searching and assisting hill teams.
“It’s has been snowing heavily for several days and this is hampering an outcome.
“Please be advised that there is a increased avalanche risk and full winter conditions on Ben Nevis.”
The search will resume this morning.
Mr Knox is described as 5ft 10in, slim build with dark hair.
He was last seen wearing dark waterproof trousers, walking boots and a jacket with red flashes on it.
Anyone with information on Mr Knox’s whereabouts is urged to contact police on 101.