Tributes paid to Scots mountain climber one year on from death in Indian avalanche

Dad-of-two Martin Moran was among a group of eight who were caught up in an avalanche on India's Nanda Devi mountain last year.

Scots mountain rescue bosses have paid tribute to an 'invaluable' team member nearly one year after his death in the Himalayas.

Dad-of-two Martin Moran was among a group of eight who were caught up in an avalanche on India's massive Nanda Devi mountain last year.

The 64-year-old was an experienced climber, led the group on the hike up the 21,250 foot peak but contact was lost on May 26.

When the team did not return to base, frantic searches were launched.

By late June bodies were beginning to be recovered and Martin's death was later confirmed by authorities.

A statement from Torridon Mountain Rescue Team, who Martin served with, read: "Tomorrow is the first anniversary of the death of Martin Moran and six others on Nanda Devi.

"Martin was an invaluable member of the team for many years and a great friend.

"Our thoughts and condolences go out to Martin's family at this sad time and to the families of those who died with him."

Martin was survived by is wife Joy and two children Alex and Hazel.

A family statement at the time read:  "Martin was a beloved husband, father, friend and colleague. We will honour his memory by continuing to journey into the mountains and to all the places he held dear."

Following the tragedy last year heartfelt tributes were paid by other mountaineering organisations.

British Mountain Guides wrote: "The entire membership of the British Association of Mountain Guides is devastated to learn that our friend and colleague Martin Moran has died in an avalanche on Nanda Devi East along with his six clients and their Indian liaison officer.

"Martin has been a member of our association for thirty-four years and within this close-knit group of fewer than two hundred individuals he has worked and climbed alongside nearly all of us. Our thoughts go out to his family and friends and to those of his clients at this terrible time"