Mountain rescuers have resumed their search for a missing climbing couple in “extremely challenging” conditions on Ben Nevis.
Members of Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team have been able to take to the hill for the first team since Tuesday in the search for Rachel Slater and Tim Newton.
The two experienced climbers have not been seen since last weekend.
Lochaber MRT have been frustrated in their attempts to carry out ground searches through the week because of treacherous snow conditions on Scotland’s highest peak.
This morning 25 team members and a rescue dog have been out searching.
The team say conditions are “extremely challenging” with “considerable” avalanche risk in high winds and heavy fresh snow above 1,600ft.
A drone could also be used in the search but the team said expectations of using the drone are “not high” because of the conditions.
The team has also been in contact with the crew of coastguard helicopter Rescue 951 but again the weather is preventing the helicopter from taking part in the search.
A spokesman for the team said: “Firstly, our thoughts continue to be with Rachel and Tim’s family and friends.
“We have assured them we will use our best efforts to find them.”
He added: “The search today will attempt to focus on the lower slopes from the north face of Castle Ridge, Castle Coire, below Waterfall Gully and all the way round to the CIC hut.
“One team is going to attempt to look into the Castle gullies and the Carn Dearg summit gullies, with due consideration for potential of triggering avalanches onto teams on the lower slopes.
“We have a drone which we will use to attempt to use to look onto some of the ledges above Waterfall Gully and lower slopes of Colando – expectations of it being able to operate are not high.
“We would like to thank everyone who has offered their assistance in the last few days.
“With conditions as they are we cannot afford to put any more people, than absolutely necessary, at risk and hope you appreciate why we have declined these generous offers.”
A police spokesman said that the search was being kept under constant review on safety grounds.
Ms Slater, 24, and Mr Newton, 27, had travelled to Lochaber from Bradford for a Valentine’s weekend climbing.
Their tent and Ms Slater’s car have since been found in the area.
Ms Slater is believed to have been wearing a turquoise jacket while Mr Newton is thought to have been wearing a red jacket.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 101.