The radios will allow for better co-ordination during major incidents

All 23 of Scotland's civilian teams will benefit from an extra £400,000 in Scottish Executive funding.

The Mountain Rescue Committee of Scotland (MRCS) has said the new radio network will be "invaluable" to its volunteers.

It has raised a further £200,000 which will be added to the executive's cash.

Announcing the funding, Justice Minister Cathy Jamieson said: "Scotland's mountains are famous across the world for their outstanding beauty and are a key asset to this country's economy.

'Much-needed'

"However, behind their beauty lies a more dangerous side and even the most experienced of climbers may find themselves in difficulty and requiring help on our mountains.

"This investment will enable these dedicated, highly professional mountain rescuers to continue to improve mountain safety."

Every rescuer will carry one of the handsets

The new radios will see a move to a 15-channel communications system which will allow better co-ordination during major incidents and also help avoid local interference and alleviate channel congestion.

Nick Forwood, chairman of the MRCS, welcomed the funding. He said: "This much-needed radio equipment will enable rescuers to continue to aid those in need in the mountains.

"Other new equipment such as vehicle and mobile radio repeaters will also provide invaluable help whenever rescuers are called to work in the hills.