A woman who attempted to climb Ben Nevis wearing shorts and trainers had to be rescued after becoming lost and developing hypothermia. Sara Albone, 28, from Brighton, was caught in cloud and heavy rain on the North Face of the 4,400ft mountain, where several climbers have died in recent months.
Rescuers from the Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team found her by chance as she became disorientated. Team leader John Stevenson described her attempt as “ridiculous,” noting that the summit remains in “full-blown winter” conditions. “Being irresponsible means others have to go out of their way to help,” he said.
Ms Albone, a keen cross-country runner, decided to climb the mountain on impulse while on a cycling tour of Scotland. She later praised her “incredibly brave and kind” rescuers, adding: “I think if it had not been for these guys, I could have died.”
Andrew Simpson from Mountain Rescue England and Wales urged walkers to ensure they are properly equipped with winter clothing, a hot drink, and food. “She was very lucky. It’s vital that people have the right equipment when they go into the mountains,” he said.
