French mayor threatens to fine ill-equipped climbers

A mayor in an area of the French Alps that is a gateway to Mont Blanc plans to fine climbers attempting to scale the mountain without proper gear.

Exasperated by accidents on western Europe’s highest peak involving ill-equipped tourists, mayor Jean-marc Peillex yesterday issued a threat of a €38 (£35) fine.

On Tuesday, rescuers were searching for a 46-year-old man, missing with no equipment.