A family has said they are 'broken' after a body was found in the search for a missing Scots pensioner.
The remains were found in the Union Canal, near Linlithgow, West Lothian, at around 9pm on Thursday, January 20.
While formal identification was yet to take place, police confirmed the family of missing Jack Brown had been informed.
The 83-year-old's family has paid tribute to an 'amazing grandfather' and dad with a 'wicked sense of humour'.
His heartbroken daughter also thanked the community for their efforts after an urgent search was launched to find him.
Jay Brown wrote on social media : "Can I begin by saying how overwelmed with everybody's effort last night to find my dad. The support you gave to my family and I. You helped keep our hope alive.
"Sadly the outcome was the worst possible. Thank you each and every one of you. To everyone that searched and all the messages, I thank you. Too many to reply too sorry.
She continued: "We are broken and in a state of disbelief at the moment. A huge emptiness. A part of my heart has gone with him. There's one thing I know, my dad would have been so touched and proud of the Linlithgow community today.
"Go be with mum, dad. You were larger than life with a wicked sense of humour. You have left lovely memories that I will treasure forever.
"Loved you more than you ever knew. I will miss you always dad RIP."
His granddaughter also thanked locals as she broke the devastating news.
She said: "My amazing grandfather is now in a better place. I wish that this happened in better circumstances, he was dearly loved and will be greatly missed.
"Love to all who have taken time out of their lives to support our family, special thanks to the police force of Linlithgow who dedicated their time, effort and resources to help us."
Hundreds of people flooded in to send their condolences to the family online.
Andy Whelan said: "This news has kept me awake tonight. I can't imagine how you all feel. I'm sure you have lots of support but If you do happen to need anything at all please let me know. You all take care now. God bless you all."
Janine MB added: "I am so sorry. I am sobbing reading this. My heart goes out to you."
"So sorry to read this like everyone was hoping for a different outcome. Hope your memories of judging by the pictures of a man with an amazing sense of fun are a comfort to you and your family at this sad time", wrote Lorna Simpson.
Police confirmed the death is not being treated as suspicious and a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "Around 9pm on Thursday, 20 January, 2022 the body of a man was found within the Union Canal near Linlithgow.
"Formal identification is still to take place however the family of 83-year-old Jack Brown have been made aware. He was reported missing earlier in the day.
"The death is not being treated as suspicious and a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal."
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here .
