A MOUNTAIN rescue team leader yesterday attacked the incidence of ill-prepared people being caught out on peaks in the Highlands.

Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team was called on again on Wednesday night—the third time since Monday.

As with the two previous call-outs, people were in trouble on Ben Nevis.

Police received information that a couple were stuck on the summit of Ben Nevis and unable to continue, due to the female being extremely cold.

With the help of the team and an RAF search and rescue helicopter, the hapless walkers were quickly found at the summit shelter, and taken to Belford Hospital, Fort William.

Lochaber team leader Terry Confield said, “This was the third call-out in three days or Ben Nevis alone.

“You have to ask why these people were up there at that time of night. They were neither experienced nor well-equipped.”

He added, “I feel people are too reliant on 999 calls and believe they will be rescued. They should consider the conditions and go back to try another day if the weather is against them.”