A fisherman has died after falling into water near Loch Carnan in South Uist.
It is understood the man was discovered in the water after his creel fishing boat was spotted run aground on rocks.
A passing vessel noticed that the boat empty after approaching to investigate, before the man’s body was spotted in the water.
The area is known to be popular with anglers and fishermen.
Coastguard teams from Benbecula and Lochboisdale were joined by the Barra lifeboat, and a search and rescue helicopter from Stornoway in relation to the incident.
Police officers also attended and a spokesman for the force said that the man’s body was recovered from the shoreline at 1.30pm.
He added: “Assistance was provided by the HM Coastguard and the Scottish Ambulance Service. The man’s next of kin are aware.
“Inquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances, although there are no apparent suspicious circumstances.
“A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal in due course.”
Local councillor, Calum Macmillan, said: “My prayers are very much with the family of the man involved at what is a terribly sad time.”
Fellow ward councillor, Donald Manford, added: “It is devastatingly sad and tragic when incidents like this do happen.
“Loch Carnan is quite a bit away from the beaten track. The area is a sheltered sea loch and attractive to many people in good, calm weather.
“My thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the man involved as they always are in situations like this.”
And South Uist member, Paul Steele, said: “This is just tragic news, which is affecting the whole community greatly.
“There is a strong fishing community right across the islands and my thoughts and prayers go out to the family of the man and all of those involved.”