Body found amid search for missing 'experienced' walker on the Isle of Skye

A body has been found in the search for a missing walker who disappeared on the Isle of Skye.

Police and mountain rescue teams discovered the body of a man on Friday afternoon in the Cuillins mountain range.

Formal identification of the body has yet to take place, but officers said the family of Roderick (Roddy) MacPherson has been informed.

The 67-year-old was last seen outside the Sligachan Hotel on Monday, June 4, walking towards the Sligachan Bridge.

Police said there appear to be no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death.

A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.

A spokesperson for Skye mountain rescue team (MRT) said: “Extensive searches were carried out, mainly focusing on the Red Hills and parts of the Northern Cuillin. On Thursday, thanks to helpful information from a local guide, efforts shifted to the area around Bruach na Frithe.

“Around midday on Friday, with improved weather and cloudless tops, a body was sighted on a grassy ledge high on the cliffs between Harta and Lota Corries. It was immediately clear that lowering the casualty to safety would be long and technically demanding.

“A team member was lowered to a position above and confirmed there were no signs of life, and that significantly more equipment would be needed. Fortunately, Stornoway Coastguard helicopter R948 was able to return and carry out a direct lift from the ledge — an incredible effort and a huge relief.

“The helicopter later returned multiple times to help extract the teams and equipment back to Sligachan.

“Skye MRT contributed over 350 hours to this search — not including the time and effort given by Police Scotland (N division), Royal Air Force mountain rescue service, Kintail mountain rescue, Glenelg mountain rescue, Search and Rescue Dog Association Scotland, local Coastguard teams including HM Coastguard – Portree, Isle of Skye, and helicopter crews of R948 and R951.

“Our sincere thanks to all involved. Thanks also to the Sligachan Hotel for feeding and supporting us on Wednesday night and Thursday.

“Skye MRT extends our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Roderick MacPherson at this very difficult time. While formal identification has yet to be made, we understand this will come as deeply sad news to those that knew him.”