EFFORTS to trace two Bradford climbers missing on Ben Nevis remained suspended today as high winds and driving snow prevented both ground and air searches.

Rachel Slater, 24, and Tim Newton, 27, failed to return from an outing on Britain's highest peak last weekend and treacherous conditions have hindered the rescue operation.

Members of Lochaber Mountain Rescue hope to get on to the mountain tomorrow.

Team leader John Stevenson told BBC Radio Scotland: "It's very frustrating and we're trying to get something for the families mainly, and we've got nothing to go on.

"We don't know where to look yet, so we're just going to have to start basically at the beginning and just work our way around the hill."

Ms Slater's family have flown from their home in Canada to be kept up to date with the search.

In a joint statement with Mr Newton's family released on Thursday, they thanked search and rescue teams for their work.

They said: ''The overwhelming response from members of the public and the climbing community has greatly assisted the search effort and we appreciate all the support and words of encouragement.

''As the search continues we remain hopeful Rachel and Tim will be found and reunited with their families and friends."

The avalanche risk in Lochaber remains high, according to the Scottish Avalanche Information Service, with new snow lying on top of frozen snow making the surface unstable.

Police Scotland said: "Conditions remain under constant review.

"Police and partners reiterate the appeal to anyone with any information that may assist the search effort to make contact.

"Climbers and walkers travelling to the area this weekend are asked to bear the search activity in mind and report anything they feel may assist via 101.

"An assessment of conditions will be made first thing on Saturday where consideration will be given to deploying Mountain Rescue personnel and all available resources."