The group got lost on Ben Nevis's summit plateau. Photo: Sarah Lewis/John Muir Trust

Rescuers have gone to the aid of a group on Britain’s highest mountain after one of them fell more than 600 feet.

The four got lost in whiteout conditions on Ben Nevis today and strayed too close to the edge of Coire Eòghainn on the south side of the 1,344m (4,409ft) mountain.

The group, from Manchester, was tackling the mountain for charity when the man fell. One other became separated from his companions.

Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team was called out and 26 volunteer team members were involved in the operation to find them to bring the group to safety.

An RAF Sea King helicopter flew to the scene about 3pm from its Lossiemouth base in Moray.

One of the group was found by a mountaineer and two have been airlifted from the mountain by the helicopter, a team spokesperson said.

The fallen walker was located by a team member about 8pm and will have to be lowered down the corrie to a position where he can be stretchered off the hillside.