A missing man who endured being stuck on a Scots hillside for two nights during Storm Otto has been traced by mercy crews. Dr John Pike, 61, from Bristol, was reported missing from the Isle of Skye at 1pm on Thursday, February 16.
A multi-force rescue mission including coastguard helicopter units, dog search handlers and police were drafted in to the search operation after he failed to return to his accommodation in Portree. It has now emerged that Dr Pike had become immobilised on the open hillside near Loch Coruisk after suffering from a leg injury.
There, he spent two nights in sub-zero temperatures and with 95pmh winds before he was traced at 10.30am today by crews from Skye Mountain Rescue Team. Miraculously, when he was located, teams said Dr Pike was "cold, but alert". His current condition is unknown.
A statement reads: "We are pleased to report that our ongoing search for the missing hillwalker, Dr John Pike, came to a successful conclusion this morning. Dr Pike, who had become immobilised after suffering a lower leg injury on Thursday, had endured two nights on the open hillside above Loch Coruisk.
"On Thursday night, a wind speed of 95 mph was recorded nearby during storm Otto. Last night temperatures plummeted, and there was fresh snow on the hills. So it was with huge relief that we found him cold, but alert around 10.30am.
"Once again, we were supported by our neighbours, Kintail MRT with substantial back up being provided by RAF Lossiemouth MRT, newly formed North Police MRT, SARDA Southern Scotland, Coastguard Helicopter R948, Mallaig Lifeboat, Police Scotland search team and dog handlers along with local Coastguard teams.
"In total over 50 volunteers and professionals were involved. We would like to wish Dr Pike a speedy recovery and thank everyone involved in the search and rescue."
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "We can confirm that John Pike, 61, who had been reported missing on Skye has been traced safe. Thank you to everyone who shared or helped with our previous appeal for information."
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