Islander identified

A 32-year-old man found dead near the Vatersay causeway last week has been formally identified.

He has been named as Ian Johnstone of Castlebay.

Mr Johnstone worked as a chef at the Cafe Kisimul curry house in the village.

A large search was launched when he was reported missing.

Locals said he was seen at the Castlebay Co-op and later by the neighbouring village of Nask on Wednesday 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.

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."

Islander found dead is identified

19 July 2017