A father and his 12-year-old son who were found dead after going missing in the Scottish Highlands probably died as the result of a fall, police have said. Tributes have been paid to Tom Parry, 49, and his son Richie, from Cheshire, who did not return home on Wednesday after visiting Glen Nevis and Glen Coe to go hillwalking.
Their car was found in the Three Sisters car park in the area on Tuesday, and at about 7.25pm on Wednesday rescuers recovered two bodies from Stob Coire nan Lochan, Glen Coe.
They have now been formally identified as Parry and his son. Police said there were no suspicious circumstances and that their deaths were being treated as the result of a fall.
In a statement issued through Police Scotland, Gemma Parry said: “Tom was a caring and loving father to his children and a loving husband to me, his wife. Richie was an energetic, loving boy who loved his quizzes, maths, and sports. He always cared for others as well, no matter what.
“We would like to take this chance to thank the Scottish and Cheshire police as well as the mountain rescue service, along with all the other emergency services involved in finding Richie and Tom.
“Tom and Richie will be sadly missed and never forgotten.”
Parry also thanked the community of Alsager in Cheshire and “all of our family friends who have helped us and supported us throughout this time”.
Insp Katy Duncan, of Police Scotland, said: “Our thoughts remain with the Parry family at what is a very difficult time for them. We would like to thank everyone who responded to our appeal, to all emergency services and mountain rescue volunteers.”
A report has been submitted to the procurator fiscal, Scotland’s public prosecution service and death investigation authority.