Woman spends night by body

The pair were walking near Wester Ross in the north of Scotland

A pensioner from the north-east of England is in shock after spending the night outdoors next to the body of her dead husband.

Police say 71-year-old John Young died at about 1900 BST on Friday along a path between Kernsary and Poolewe, in Wester Ross.

His wife spent nine hours with the body after the former train driver from Winlaton in Tyne and Wear collapsed while walking in the Scottish Highlands.

She made her way off the hill at first light to raise the alarm.

Assistance given

A Northern Constabulary spokesman said she remained in shock, and detectives were still trying to obtain more details from her.

He said: "It is believed that the incident occurred at about 1900 BST on Friday, and that the woman remained with the deceased until first light, at about 0400 BST.

"At that time she made her way to get help and eventually reached a cottage in the area where assistance was given."

Dundonnell mountain rescue team leader Bill Amos said the area where the couple had been was off the main trail.

"Considering what that poor old lady had been through she did very well to walk off the hill in the morning," he added.

A report is to be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal at Dingwall.