A WOMAN was airlifted to hospital from the Ochils last week after fracturing her ankle while out walking.

The dramatic rescue began when the 37-year-old, who was part of a small group on their way down from Ben Ever at Wood Hill, near Dollar, slipped around 3pm on Sunday, November 12.

She sustained a suspected broken leg but Advertiser understands the hillwalker actually fractured a number of bones in her ankle.

It is understood that the woman, who is from the Cumbernauld area, required surgery to a fractured leg and ankle.

Police were contacted immediately and officers called on volunteers from Ochils Mountain Rescue Team for assistance.

About 15 members rushed to the scene – locating the stricken woman on the hill before darkness set in to rescue her and bring her to safety.

The Scottish Charity Air Ambulance, Helimed 76, followed shortly afterwards and the woman was stretchered on-board and taken to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee for treatment to leg and ankle injuries.

Mountain rescue volunteers then accompanied the remainder of the walking party off the hill and to safety while the woman was taken care of.

Kevin Mitchell, team leader with Ochils Mountain Rescue Team, said: “They managed to land the air ambulance just a few hundred metres away from the scene which was a big help. It saved the volunteers and injured lady a long journey down the hill on a stretcher.

“It was a good example of the different teams working together and in partnership. The helimed is a fantastic resource and, given the time of day and the fact darkness was starting to draw in, it proved really helpful.

“We wish the lady a speedy recovery and would like to thank the air ambulance for their assistance.”

Mr Mitchell added: “The lady who was injured and the others in the group were all well-prepared for the conditions. It just seems to have been a complete accident.”

With winter approaching, mountain rescue teams have recently been issuing advice on how walkers can stay safe on the hills during the colder months.

Walkers are urged to prepare for changeable weather, and dark nights, prior to going out – while considering leaving early for their walk and returning home early.

People are also being encouraged to ensure they pack a survival kit comprising essentials such as a head-torch, compass and map along with the latest technology on their smartphone including OS Locate.