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Inquiry into climbers' deaths expected in August

Getty Images The rocky ridge rises from a glen. The ridge line is jagged.Getty Images
Concerns were raised for three climbers after they failed to return from a climb on Saturday 5 August

A fatal accident inquiry (FAI) into the deaths of three climbers in Glen Coe is set to take place this summer.

Graham Cox, 60, Hazel Crombie, 64, and David Fowler, 39, died on Aonach Eagach in August 2023.

The ridge is popular with climbers and one of the narrowest in mainland Britain, stretching for six miles (9.7km) and climbing to a height of 3,608ft (1,100m).

Sheriff Neil Wilson told a hearing he expected the inquiry to be held on 18 and 19 August at Fort William Sheriff Court.

A further preliminary hearing is due to be held on 9 June.

Concerns were raised for the three climbers after they failed to return from a climb on Saturday 5 August.

An initial search involving Inverness coastguard helicopter was made in mist and fog in difficult terrain, before the bodies were found the following day.

Glencoe and RAF mountain rescue teams assisted with the search and recovery operation.