Avalanche - MCofS Issues Statement

The Mountaineering Council of Scotland and the An Teallach Mountaineering Club, which counted the victims of Saturday's Glencoe avalanche among its members, have issued a joint statement about the incident.

'Most serious Scottish avalanche incident in recent years...'

Dave Gibson, Chief Officer of the MCofS comments:

'This was the most serious Scottish avalanche incident in recent years and is a blunt reminder of the fickle nature of Scotland's snow and avalanche conditions. Mountaineering and climbing are activities with a risk of injury or death and avalanches are one of the hazards that may be encountered on the hills.

'However, it is important to recognise that thousands of people were out on the Scottish hills on Saturday and that the vast majority had a safe and enjoyable day.’

‘Mountaineers and climbers develop self reliance through experience. It is essential that individual experience is further informed about avalanche and weather conditions through the specialist information and advice which is updated daily and freely available to all’.

'They will all be sorely missed...'

A spokesperson for the An Teallach Mountainering Club, of which all three victims were members said:

‘The members of the ATMC are very saddened by this terrible accident and the loss of our friends Eamonn, John and Brian. Our thoughts are first and foremost with their families and all other friends at this difficult time to whom we offer our sincere condolences.’

‘All three men had been members of the club for many years and were experienced mountaineers. They were all great guys, good company and were wonderful supporters of the club. They had a love of the mountains and their sense of fun and friendship made a significant contribution to the life of the club. They had attended club events all over Scotland.’

You can read the full statement at www.mcofs.org.uk