New search launched for body of Ben Nevis hillwalker

A FRESH search has been launched to find the body of a hillwalker who plunged 1600ft to his death on the UK’s highest mountain three months ago.

Polish hiker Marcin Bialas, 36, was reported missing in an area close to Observatory Gully and Gardyloo Gully on Ben Nevis on January 21.

He is believed to have fallen through an overhanging ledge of snow.

Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team leader John Stevenson confirmed that new searches had been mounted.

“We have been going out every couple of days as the snow melts, but there is still no sign of him,” said Mr Stevenson.

“We have a reasonable idea where he may be.

“We are keen to get closure for his family and friends.

“But there is still a significant amount of snow where we think he is, though it is disappearing fast.

“We are hopeful of bringing this to a conclusion for the family in the next few weeks – though you can never give a guarantee.”

Mr Bialas, fell close to the 4411ft summit.

Rescuers were able to reach two other men who were with him, but bad weather and avalanches on the day limited searches for the missing man.

Ten hillwalkers have died on Scotland’s mountains this year.