The Fisherfield Forest. Photo: Andy Beaton/Dundonnell MRT

Rescuers in the Highlands stressed the need for groups to stay together on the hills, after three walkers reported themselves lost.

Police fielded two separate calls from the party who were tackling the ‘big six’ munros in the Fisherfield Forest in Wester Ross.

Dundonnell Mountain Rescue Team was alerted about 8.45pm on Saturday.

The team said, while descending from Beinn a’ Chlaidheimh, one member of the group became separated from companions and all three subsequently reported themselves lost. Weather conditions at the time were mixed, the rescuers added.

Team members searched the area overnight, with help first from the Inverness Coastguard helicopter, and then the Stornoway aircraft.

All three walkers were found safe and well on Sunday morning.

Dundonnell MRT leader Iain Nesbitt said: “This incident was a good example of inter-agency co-operation and in particular I would like to thank HM Coastguard for their role in bringing the operation to a successful conclusion.

“I’d also like to take the opportunity to emphasise how important it is for hill-goers to carry individual headtorches at all times, even during the brighter nights of the Scottish summer months.

“In addition, this incident highlighted the importance of groups keeping together on the hill, especially when some members of the group may be less experienced in navigation and hill-craft.”