A couple who were stranded overnight in the Cairngorms, forcing them to camp on a plateau amid freezing weather, have thanked their rescuers.

Robert and Cathy Elmer, from Leicestershire, were reported missing on New Year's Day after failing to return home from a walk.

The couple, aged 59 and 56, had gone for a walk with their collie Meg but lost their map during the journey in the Glenmore area.

They and their pet had to camp on a plateau and use their survival bivvy bag as they awaited rescue.

Mr Elmer said: "I was desperate for daylight to come so we could finish the journey. But I was hoping for clear conditions.

"It was white out with a wind - I don't think you can know until you experience it. The mountains can be dangerous."

Cairngorm Mountain Rescue Team (CMRT) searched for them overnight amid snow and freezing temperatures but were unable to trace them.

An RAF mountain rescue team and a coastguard helicopter joined the search on Monday until the couple and their dog were spotted in the mountains around midday by a member of the public.

They were then escorted off the hills by CMRT volunteers to a track vehicle which took them to the funicular railway.

Mr Elmer added: "We're so grateful to the mountain rescue. It was such a relief to see them."