MAN KILLED ON SNOWDON

Rock fall seen by walkers leads to discovery of body in search:

A MAN was killed after a “rock fall” on Snowdon on Christmas Eve.

Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team said the body of a person was discovered after members of the public reported seeing a “possible rock fall” on the mountain.

A coastguard rescue helicopter was called out and the man’s body was discovered.

It is believed the casualty fell from the mountain, resulting in rocks being knocked from the side, which attracted the attention of the walkers.

A spokesman for the mountain rescue team said: “On the morning of Christmas Eve the team were alerted by members of the public, who were on the PYG track, to a possible rock fall below Bwlch Y Saethau.

“After looking through a high powered camera lens the informant was concerned that a person maybe have been caught up in the fall.

“The team coordinator immediately requested support from the [coastguard helicopter] who were immediately tasked to the scene and deployed their winchman paramedic.

“The winchman located the casualty and relayed the message that tragically, the casualty hadn’t survived the fall.”

Mountain rescuers were then taken to the site to recover the body of the casualty.

The spokesman added: “The terrain proved quite technical with team members requiring ropes to secure everyone on scene and to move the casualty.

“Once in a suitable position, [the helicopter] returned to lift the casualty.

“Our condolences go to the family and friends of the casualty, at any time a tragic incident, more-so given the time of year.

“And our special thanks go to both crews of [the rescue helicopter] for their speed and commitment to what, at times, was a highly technical and dangerous rescue.”