Police name deceased following mountain incident on Raeburn's Buttress, Ben Nevis, Fort William

Issued by Northern Constabulary

Police can confirm the details of the deceased following Monday's fatal mountain incident on Raeburn's Buttress on the North Face of Ben Nevis.

Mark Phillips, 51, from Spean Bridge, Environmental Health Officer with Highland Council.

The wife of Mr Phillips, Caroline, has issued the below statement through Police.
Statement on behalf of Caroline Phillips – 27 February 2013

"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.