A 32-year-old man found dead on a tiny beach on Barra last week has been formally identified.
He has been named as Ian Johnstone of Castlebay.
Mr Johnstone worked as a chef at the Cafe Kismul curry house in the village.
Cafe owner, Pauline Hynds Bari, said she was “absolutely devastated.”
She said Mr Johnstone worked and supported her and was “part of my family.”
“Words cannot express how I feel right now.”
A large search was launched when he was reported missing last Wednesday.
Locals said he was seen at the Castlebay Co-op supermarket and later by the neighbouring village of Nask that afternoon.
Mr Johnstone’s body was discovered at Traigh a’ Ghoirtein on Thursday. The small secluded beach on the Barra side of the causeway link to Vatersay is nearly three miles from the centre of Castlebay.
There is no path to the beach and overland access can be difficult.
His body was recovered by the Stornoway coastguard helicopter.
Police Scotland said there are no suspicious circumstances and a report has been submitted to the procurator fiscal.
Chief Inspector Gordon Macleod said: “Our thoughts remain with Mr Johnstone’s family following this tragic incident.”
Many islanders paid tribute to Mr Johnstone on social media.
One said he was the “sweetest, loveliest, most gentlest guy with such a kind soul. What an unbelievable loss for our community.”
A local woman wrote: “Heart breaking news. A quiet, obliging, lovely boy who amended recipes to give me my favourite curry. In my thoughts and prayers. RIP Ian.”
“Sorry to hear the sad news, a gentleman and talented chef,” said another.