Experienced Hill Walker, 74, died in the fall on Mount Glencoe

Freddie Ray, a super-fit grandfather from Motherwell, made one last phone call to his family before the tragic accident.

Freddie Ray, 74, an experienced hill walker, died on Saturday evening after falling while descending the Beinn a’ Chrulaiste area in Glencoe, Scottish Highlands.

The super-fit grandfather from Motherwell had made it to the summit and spoke to his son at 3:30pm, expressing his delight at the stunning views and perfect weather for the climb.

“My father died doing what he loved.” said Peter Ray, Freddie’s devastated son. “He said [my brother] Such amazing views and what a great day to climb. He was so happy.

Concerns were raised when Freddie failed to return by 6pm, and his phone disappeared from the Find My Phone app his son was using. Police Scotland alerted Glencoe Mountain Rescue, who quickly found Freddie’s body after conducting an extensive search of the area.

A rescue helicopter dropped a paramedic off to ensure Freddie was dead before he was called to assist with another accident. Volunteers from Glencoe Mountain Rescue recovered the body using an off-road vehicle and transported him to the rescue center, where a private ambulance was waiting.

Glencoe Mountain Rescue Team in action
– Image source: GMR Facebook page

Freddie Ray was a veteran hillwalker who conquered over 200 Munroes in over 50 years of hiking.

His son Peter fondly recalled their adventures together, saying: “I’m glad I didn’t grow up with iPads – instead I learned a lot from my parents about the Scottish hills.”

Ray’s family expressed their gratitude to the 14-member 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 in danger too.” Peter said.

A spokesman 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 now outgrown its base in Glencoe Currently seeking donations To finance the extension.

Police Scotland confirmed that there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the incident, and a report will be submitted to the Attorney General.

The Ray family have urged the public to support the Glencoe Mountain Rescue Team by donating to the fundraiser, to ensure they can continue their heroic work in the Scottish Highlands.

References:

1. A post by Glencoe Mountain Rescue on Facebook
2. TheNational.Scot
3. daily record.co.uk