The summit plateau of Ben Nevis in poor conditions. Four were rescued recently from the mountain

Police in the Highlands have renewed their appeal to hillwalkers to be prepared and properly equipped when they venture on to the mountains.

The plea came from Northern Constabulary following four incidents in the Ben Nevis area and one in the Cairngorms.

Northern Constabulary repeated advice given on Wednesday after 18 walkers had to be rescued when they got lost.

A statement from the force on Friday said: “Police would like to remind hillwalkers and climbers of the importance of being prepared and equipped when going into the hills, following five mountain rescue incidents over the past 24 hours.

“Police were alerted to three incidents today and one yesterday evening in the Nevis range and one of overdue walkers in the Cairngorms in the early hours of this morning.”

Chief Inspector Colin Gough of the Northern Constabulary said: “Anyone going into the hills should be aware of how quickly weather conditions can change and should be appropriately equipped and prepared.

“It is sensible to take simple precautions, and make sure you are capable of completing your intended route, to avoid the need for emergency rescue.”