Tributes paid after bodies of missing father and son Tom and Ritchie Parry discovered in Glencoe

Tributes have been paid following the “devastating” deaths of a father and son who went missing while on a hillwalking trip in Glencoe.

Tom Parry, 49, and his 12-year-old son Richie failed to return to their home in Cheshire on Wednesday following a planned visit to Glen Nevis and Glencoe.

A major search was launched with police confirming that two bodies were found in Glencoe on Wednesday evening.

The bodies have not been formally identified but the family of the father and son have been made aware.

In a statement, Mr Parry’s workplace, The Senate Group said: “All of us at Senate are devastated to hear that our much loved team member, Tom, has died tragically in the Scottish Highlands along with his young son.

“We would like to thank everyone for their wonderful messages of kindness and support today. We are extremely grateful also for the skills and commitment of the emergency/rescue services in Scotland.

“We are all heartbroken – we have lost a highly valued employee and friend, who will be greatly missed by each one of us, but never forgotten.”

St Mary’s Church in Alsager also paid tribute to the pair following the “devastating” news.

The church said: “Hearing the tragic news this morning regarding the heart breaking deaths of Tom and Richie Parry. We at St. Mary’s offer our sincerest condolences and prayers to all their family, friends, and neighbours, and for all who are now coming to terms with this shocking and devastating news.

“St. Mary’s Church will continue to be open, as it is everyday, for anyone who wishes to come in and peacefully hold Tom, Richie, and all their family, in their thoughts and prayers.

“And we pray that in your gracious and loving mercy Lord, Tom and Richie may rest in peace, and rise in glory, and that all their loved ones, and all who grieve, will know your comfort and strength at this truly difficult time.

“In your holy name we pray. Amen.”

Police said there are no apparent suspicious circumstances but added that enquiries are “ongoing”.

A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal in due course.

Inspector Craig Johnstone said: “Our thoughts are with all those involved. I would like to thank all emergency services and Mountain Rescue volunteers.”