Police Scotland has joined forces with the Mountaineering Council of Scotland and Scottish Mountain Rescue to urge walkers intending to venture into the hills to ensure they are well prepared.

Police were called to five incidents over the course of 14-15 March, alongside Mountain Rescue Teams, involving walkers who had become injured.

Police in Forth Valley, the Killin Mountain Rescue Team (MRT) and a Search & Rescue (SAR) helicopter were deployed to the Crianlarich area early Sunday morning after reports of concern for a walker. The body of a 34-year-old man was recovered from Cruach Andrain at around 10am.

During the recovery, a member of Killin MRT sustained a back injury and had to be airlifted to Southern General Hospital. He was discharged from hospital on the Monday (16 March).

At 11.50am police, the Lomond MRT and a SAR helicopter were called to Ben Lomond after a 28-year-old man sustained serious injuries. He succumbed to these and a report will be submitted to the procurator fiscal.

Forth Valley Area Commander Paul Rollo said: “Our sincere condolences go to the families and friends of the walkers and we are urging, alongside our colleagues at the Mountain Rescue Team, for people to be cautious when navigating difficult or unknown terrains.

“Please ensure you are always prepared by checking the weather beforehand, take the proper equipment and dress appropriately for the conditions.” People heading for the hills should always check the weather forecast beforehand. The Mountain Weather Information Service at www.mwis.org.uk is specially focused on mountain areas, and the sportscotland Avalanche Information Service at www.sais.gov.uk has essential information about snow cover and conditions.