A Coastguard Sikorsky S-92 from Inverness joined the search today

Rescuers have failed to find a missing walker on Ben Nevis, despite a massive search in bad weather.

Londoner Kyle Knox was reported missing on Tuesday after reportedly going for a walk up the mountain.

Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team warned there is now an increased risk of avalanche and the mountain is in full winter conditions.

The team was joined today by Glencoe MRT and an RAF MRT, plus search and rescue dogs.

A Lochaber team spokesperson said conditions on Ben Nevis were at times horrendous.

Missing walker Kyle Knox

Team searched the summit, Coire Eòghainn, Five Finger Gully and the lower slopes of the hill. A Sea King helicopter from RAF Lossiemouth helped the search, and the Coastguard’s Sikorsky S-92 from Inverness also spent several hours scouring the mountain for sightings of the 23-year-old on its first official day as civilian provider of search and rescue in the area.

The Lochaber MRT spokesperson said: “It’s has been snowing heavily for several days and this is hampering an outcome.”

Police Scotland said Mr Knox failed to return to his accommodation in Fort William. He was last seen about 10am on Monday.

He is described as 5ft 10ins [178cm], slim build with dark hair. Mr Knox was last seen wearing dark waterproof trousers, walking boots and a jacket with red flashes on it.

Anyone with information on Mr Knox’s whereabouts is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101.