Shocked neighbours yesterday paid tribute to Greg Watson whose body was found in Wester Ross after had been reported missing.
Greg Watson, of Dingwall in Easter Ross, was last seen in Dornie, near Kyle, on the evening of Thursday July 10.
His body was discovered in Wester Ross on Thursday a week later after police had issued a public appeal for help in tracing him.
It is understood that he was reported missing by a family member. Police were told that Mr Watson may have been going to look for ancient Pictish sites.
He is believed to have fallen and hit rocks in the Carr’s Brae area, which includes a circular walk linking historical routes.
Residents in the quiet cul-de-sac in Dingwall where he lived were yesterday coming to terms with the news of his death.
Next-door neighbour, Ben Kelbie, said: “We were shocked to first of all hear that he was missing, but devastated to find out that he had been found dead.
“I hadn’t seen him for a while, but he was a great guy and people around here are quite upset.
“He was always pleasant when we chatted, a great guy really, who loved talking about motorbikes.
“He had recently started a relationship with a woman who had a disabled child and seemed happy.
“The youngster liked him, they all got on well together, and everything seemed to be going well.”
An updated statement on the police investigation was issued yesterday afternoon.
A spokesman said: “Mr Watson’s family will not be making any comment on his death, which is not being treated as suspicious.
“He was found by three members of the public but we are unable to say if they were friends, or volunteers helping the search.
“We are also unable to comment on how Mr Watson died.”
Dingwall and Seaforth councillor, Graham MacKenzie, said last night: “I did not know the lad personally, or the circumstances in which he died.
“It is devastating for this to happen within a community as small as ours, and I am sure the community will do all it can to support the family, and others, involved.”