Body found amid search for missing hillwalker Francis Johnstone who disappeared on Skye during holiday

A body has been found during the search for a missing hillwalker who disappeared almost three weeks ago on Skye.

Francis Johnson, described as an “experienced walker and camper”, left his home in Dorset on Monday, September 4 and travelled to the west of Scotland.

He had booked into various campsites and arrived at the Glenbrittle site on Skye on Wednesday, September 6, where he planned to stay for a few days.

However he had not been seen since then and his camping equipment and car were still at the site.

On Sunday, police confirmed a body had been found in the Cuillin range and that Mr Johnson’s family had been made aware.

The discovery was made by a Skye Mountain Rescue team member, amid continuing searches of the area for the missing 74-year-old.

A Facebook post from the group said: “Approximately an hour into our search, a vigilant team member made an observation of unusual objects while scanning the south flank of Sgurr nan Gobhar through binoculars.

“This particular area comprises broken crags and scree slopes, making the observation unexpected given the distance.

“Confirmation of the discovery as the missing individual, along with their rucksack, came when a party reached the scene. A stretcher was promptly brought in, and we successfully transported the body back to the road by 4.30pm.

“While formal identification is pending, the police have informed the family of Francis Johnson. The Mountain Rescue Team extends our deepest condolences to his family and friends.”

A police spokesperson said: “The body of a man has been found on the Cuillin range in the Isle of Skye during searches for a missing person.

“He is yet to be formally identified but the family of Francis Johnson, 74, who had been reported missing in the area, have been informed.”