AN EXPERIENCED climber died following a tragic accident on Ben Nevis.
Rob Brown was enjoying a day out climbing the North Face of Scotland’s highest mountain on Friday when the incident happened.
His loved ones said the freak accident could not have been prevented and his death was “quick and pain free”.
Members of the Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team managed to retrieve Rob’s body and belongings from the mountain.
Tributes have since poured in for Rob, who owned a Ben Nevis tour guide company, from friends and loved ones.
A statement about Rob’s death was posted on his Facebook page today.
It read: “On Friday 29th July 2022 we lost Rob to a climbing accident on the North Face of Ben Nevis.
“It was a beautiful day and he was excited to enjoy it in the mountains, as he always loved doing with his free time.
“Anyone that knows Rob knows he is experienced, calm, confident and not a risk-taker on the hill and Friday was no different.
“It was a tragic accident that couldn’t have been prevented and we want everyone to know it was quick and painless for him. He left us whilst having a great day out and was happy and content with his life.
“We are all absolutely heartbroken and devastated that he has had to leave us when he had so much more life left to give and with such an exciting future ahead.
“We are grateful for everyone that has reached out to us so far – to help and support us in so many ways – whilst we navigate the unimaginable.”
It continued: “Thank you to the Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team members who helped retrieve Rob and his belongings.
“Many of whom knew Rob personally and we are so grateful.
“We would like to host a celebration of Rob’s life in the next few weeks and will share plans and a date when we can.
“It would mean the world to all of us if you knew Rob and could join, to help share your memories and stories of him.”
The post was inundated with messages from friends and devastated family members.
Rob’s father Martin Scott said: “This is so hard – I am so proud of my wonderful son.”
Si Cherrett said: “Such sad, sad news. An amazing man, a true gentleman.
“My sincere condolences to his family and everyone who ever had the pleasure to have met him.”
Craig McDonald said: “Absolutely heartbroken to lose such a colourful, amazing and much loved friend.
“He was one of the funniest, most inspiring people I ever met and I am devastated for his family, Eilidh and the many, many friends he leaves behind. Slàinte Rob, you really were one of a kind.”
Malcolm Airey said: “Such awful news. Rob was one of the kindest, selfless, level-headed, and friendliest people I’ve met.
“A hole in the Fort William community which can never be filled.
“Thoughts are with Eilidh, his family, friends, climbing partner that day, and the rescue team.
“Rest in peace Rob.”
Rob was originally from Cambridge but lived in Fort William, Highland, before his death.
