Ruth Betts, reported missing in the Mamores

Police in the Highlands are appealing for sightings of an experienced hillwalker who failed to return from a traverse of some of the Mamores mountains.

Ruth Betts, 64, set out from her hotel in Fort William on Wednesday for a walk in the hills north of Kinlochleven, but did not return.

Police Scotland said concerns are growing for her welfare, and asked anyone who may have seen her to contact them.

Inspector Ross McCartney said: “Ruth intended to walk the Mamores range along Na Gruagaichean, Stob Coire a’ Chàirn and Am Bodach.

“Our enquiries found she reached the summit of Na Gruagaichean around 10.15am but we don’t know if she continued along that route. She has not returned to her accommodation.

“Ruth is an experienced hillwalker and was equipped for a day in the hills but concerns are growing for her welfare.

“Extensive searches are ongoing with assistance from local mountain rescue, Coastguard and the Search and Rescue Dogs Association. It is important we find Ruth as soon as possible.

“I am appealing to anyone in the area who may have seen Ruth to get in touch. Any piece of information could be vital in helping us to trace her.”

She is described as about 5ft 3ins (1.60m), of slight build, with short grey hair. When last seen she was wearing grey walking trousers, a waterproof jacket and carrying a green and grey rucksack.

Anyone who can help is asked to call Police Scotland on 101, quoting reference number 3322 of Wednesday, 24 July, 2024.