Freddie Rae, a super-fit grandfather from Motherwell, made a final phone call to his family before the tragic accident.
– Photo source: Peter Ray facebook profile
A 74-year-old experienced hillwalker, Freddie Rae, died on Saturday evening after falling while descending Beinn a’ Chrulaiste in Glencoe, Scottish Highlands.
The super-fit grandfather from Motherwell had successfully climbed to the summit and spoken to his son at 3:30 pm, expressing his joy about the breathtaking views and the perfect weather for climbing.
“Dad died doing what he loved,” said Peter Rae, Freddie’s devastated son. “He told [my brother] about the super views and what a great day it was to climb it. He was so happy.”
Concerns were raised when Freddie failed to return by 6 pm, and his phone had disappeared from the “find my phone” app his son was using. Police Scotland alerted Glencoe Mountain Rescue, who quickly located Freddie’s body after conducting a spread search in the area.
A rescue helicopter lowered a paramedic to confirm that Freddie had died before being called away to assist with another incident. Volunteers from Glencoe Mountain Rescue recovered the body using an off-road vehicle and transported him to the Rescue Centre, where a private ambulance was waiting.
Glencoe Mountain Rescue team in action
– Photos source: GMR facebook page
Freddie Rae was a seasoned hillwalker who had conquered over 200 Munros in more than 50 years of hiking.
His son Peter fondly recalled their adventures together, saying, “I’m glad I wasn’t brought up with iPads – instead I got to learn loads from my dad about the Scottish hills.”
The Rae family expressed their gratitude to the 14 members of the Glencoe Mountain Rescue team who worked tirelessly to find Freddie. “The whole family is indebted to them. I don’t think they get enough respect for what they do. They are putting their lives at risk as well,” said Peter.
A spokesperson for Glencoe Mountain Rescue said, “Our condolences to the man’s friends and family, you are in our thoughts at this time.” The rescue team, run entirely by volunteers, has outgrown its base in Glencoe and is currently seeking donations to fund an extension.
Police Scotland confirmed that there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding the incident, and a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.
The Rae family has urged the public to support the Glencoe Mountain Rescue Team by donating to their fundraiser, ensuring they can continue their heroic work in the Scottish Highlands.
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