'I will love you forever' - mother's tribute to Scout who died in Lochaber avalanche

• Stephen Young was killed in an avalanche during a walking holiday in Scotland

Stephen Young died on Monday when an avalanche on the upper reaches of on Creag Meagaidh. His mother Judy and uncle Andrew, who were also part of the walking party, were further down the mountain at the time and did not see him swept away.

The trip was organised by the Scout Association, of which Stephen was an active member. The alarm was raised after the teenager's uncle contacted the RAF and organised for him to be airlifted by helicopter to a hospital in Fort William. However, he was pronounced dead on arrival.

School teacher Judy, 42, said her only son was "a unique young man who has clearly touched the lives of so many people".

She added: "He did everything with enthusiasm and lived life to the full.

"He was excited to be going to Scotland for his first snow week with family and friends

"He meant the world to his whole family and we feel truly blessed to have known him for 18 years.

"It is clear from the many messages I have received, and those dedicated to him on Facebook, he had so many friends and not just within Scouting.

"Stephen, you have left a hole in my life that can never be filled. I am the proudest mum in the world and I will love you forever."

The Scout Association said no children were part of the organised trip.

Spokesman Simon Carter said: "The Scout Association is very sad to confirm the death of Stephen Young, a trustee of Kent Scout County.

"Stephen's death occurred following an avalanche in the Cairngorm region of Scotland.

"Stephen was part of an experienced, all-adult group who were in Cairngorms as part of their annual trip to the region to expand their winter hillwalking skills.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Stephen's family and friends at this very sad time.

"We are working with the authorities to support those adults involved in this sad incident."