Heartbroken family honours Highland rescue teams who recovered loved one’s body
THE family of a man who died while walking in the Highlands are honouring the “utter professionalism” of rescue teams who helped recover his body.
Police earlier this month confirmed that a body had been found during searches for a 65-year-old Swiss walker who went missing while walking the Cape Wrath trail.
Bernard Trottet had been last seen in Glenfinnan. His family was notified after a body was found in the water in the Kinloch Hourn area at around 1pm on June 2.
He was formally identified a short time later.
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After Mr Trottet — who was described as an experienced walker — had been reported missing, extensive enquiries were carried out with assistance from air support and mountain rescue.
Police said later there are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances and a report will be submitted to the procurator fiscal.
And now his loved ones have launched a fundraiser for a series of teams that were involved in the search, including Kintail and Glenelg mountain rescue teams.
They wrote: “We are raising money to support the combination of teams who assisted in the search for Bernard on the 2nd of June, 2025.
“The teams, largely consisting of volunteers, demonstrated their utter professionalism in this time and although the outcome has been tragic, have provided comfort in the recovery of Bernard.”
The rescue bid was a multi-team effort consisting of:
- Kintail Mountain Rescue Team
- Glenelg Mountain Rescue Team
- Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team
- Search & Rescue Dog Association Scotland
- Police Mountain Rescue Team
- Royal Air force Mountain Rescue Team
They were assisted by the Bristow Groups Sikorsky S-92 helicopter.
Poignantly, his family added: “Last but not least we are grateful to Gwen, the search and rescue dog who found our Bernard.
“We are asking for Bernard's memory to be honoured by ensuring that these teams may continue to operate.”
The fundraiser has already exceeded £2800 and prompted heartfelt words of sympathy from members of the public.
One wrote: “So sorry for your loss. This outcome could befall any of us. Thank you MRTs for your efforts to keep people safe.”
Another shared: “Condolences to the family. Sad to lose such a kind and trustworthy colleague. Glad to donate to such a good cause.”
A friend wrote: “My deepest condolences to your family and beloved ones. Such a tragic accident and loss but many thanks to the rescue team. Thank you Bernard for everything you did and I will keep honouring your calmness and patience with a smile.”
The Give As You Live fundraising appeal can be found at https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/fundraising/bernardtrottet
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