Wife of climber killed in Ben Nevis accident speaks of family loss
THE WIFE of a climber who died in a tragic accident on a Highland peak has spoken of her loss and dismissed "speculation" surrounding the incident.
Mark Phillips (51), from Spean Bridge, was an Environmental Health Officer with Highland Council.
He died after a fatal incident on Raeburn's Buttress on the North Face of Ben Nevis on Monday.
His wife, Caroline, has issued a statement through police.
She said: "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.
"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.
It's understood police have launched an investigation into an accident involving an RAF Lossiemouth-based Sea King helicopter after reports Mr Phillips had fallen during a winching operation during the rescue.
The initial police statement following the incident said: "Police received a call with information that a man had fallen around 50m in the Raeburn's Buttress area on the north face of Ben Nevis during a climb with another man.
"Rescue One Three Seven (RAF) and Rescue One Seven Seven (Royal Navy) assisted along with members of the Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team. During the rescue operation the man sadly died."
