Multiple rescues from Ben Nevis during strong winds and avalanches

Six people have been rescued in four separate incidents on and around Ben Nevis - two of which were during avalanches.

Three of the rescues happened simultaneously, starting on Tuesday evening and finishing early on Wednesday, in deep snow and challenging weather.

Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team helped a walker who was unable to descend Ben Nevis, and a coastguard helicopter went to the aid of two climbers stuck on Aonach Mor.

Nine Lochaber volunteers also rescued two climbers from Ben Nevis' Tower Ridge. Earlier on Tuesday an injured skier was rescued from Nevis Range on Aonach Mor.

Lochaber MRT said Tuesday had started as a "beautiful day", but gale force winds hit the area in the evening and during the night.

The winds moved large quantities of snow around the mountains.

There was an avalanche risk and the rescue team said there was a "significant" slide in the Red Burn area of Ben Nevis during two of the rescues.

It also said coastguard helicopter crews from Inverness and Stornoway encountered challenging flying conditions.

The Tower Ridge incident was described as an eight-hour technical rescue.

Lochaber MRT said: "We urge all those heading into the mountains to check the relevant weather and avalanche forecasts before heading out, along with the conditions they are likely to encounter on their chosen objective.

"As ever, we would like to thank the crews of the coastguard rescue helicopters for their skill and dedication in helping us to help those who need us."

Lochaber MRT has had a busy week having already had call-outs to help a fallen walker on steep ground between Aonach Mòr and Càrn Mòr Dearg.

The team also assisted a walker who had a serious fall at Ring of Steall, and went to the aid of an injured climber in in Number Four Gully on Ben Nevis.