Avalanche kills climber in the Highlands

A Scout Association member was killed in an avalanche on a mountainside, police said last night.

Stephen Young, 18, and from Kent, was on an organised trip when he died.

No-one else was injured in the avalanche on Creag Meagaidh in Inverness-shire in the Highlands.

An RAF helicopter was sent to the area after police were called at 2.50pm today.

Lochaber and Kinloss Mountain Rescue teams were also involved in searches of the area between Spean Bridge and Newtonmore.

Mr Young was airlifted to a hospital in Fort William but was pronounced dead on arrival.

The Scout Association said tonight no children were part of the organised trip.

Simon Carter, a spokesman for the Scout Association, said: "The Scout Association is very sad to confirm the death of Stephen Young, a trustee of Kent Scout County.

"Stephen's death occurred today following an avalanche in the Cairngorm region of Scotland.

"Stephen was part of an experienced, all-adult group who were in Cairngorms as part of their annual trip to the region to expand their winter hill walking skills.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Stephen's family and friends at this very sad time.

"We are working with the authorities to support those adults involved in this sad incident."

A spokesman for Northern Constabulary said: "Next of kin have been informed."