Tributes paid to Halkirk man after weekend tragedy
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After the body of Robert Gunn was recovered from River Thurso on Sunday morning, tributes were posted online by many who called him a "lovely man".
A police appeal was issued after Robert had been reported missing – last being seen at around 6pm on Saturday in his home village of Halkirk.
Residents were asked to check outhouses and sheds as the investigation ramped up with a helicopter being brought in on the search at around 5am.
A description of Robert and the clothes he was last seen wearing was also posted in a Police Scotland online bulletin.
Various locals reported being woken by the sound of the helicopter flying low around the village and surrounding area.
One woman said: "They had a searchlight on and seemed to be following a grid pattern as they went around the area and along the river. I couldn't tell if it was a police helicopter though."
Police searched all through the night and Robert's body was eventually recovered from River Thurso on Sunday morning. The coastguard often deal with river incidents of this type but was not called in this instance.
Police Scotland issued the following update on Sunday afternoon: "Police have now revealed that a body was found in the River Thurso in Halkirk at around 8.30am this morning and sadly confirmed that it is that of Mr Gunn.
"There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death."
A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: "We were called at 8.57am on Sunday, November 8 to assist emergency service partners at an incident on Crescent Street, Halkirk, Caithness, Highland.
"Operations Control mobilised one appliance to the scene."
Robert's niece Kayte Miller posted an online message which reads: "On behalf of the family, we would like to thank all the emergency services for their efforts in the search for Robert.
"We would also like to thank every individual who looked for him and offered assistance in a number of ways. The community support at a difficult time is greatly appreciated."
Caithness civic leader Willie Mackay, who is also chairman of the Caithness branch of disabilities charity Enable, forwarded a tribute from him and his wife Glynis which reads: "We were so sorry to hear about Robert Gunn’s passing, he was an active member of Enable for many years and loved attending our year round activities outings and functions.
"He very rarely missed an event and loved taking part in the fun, games and dancing with all the members. He was very popular with those attending, always had a smile for everyone and enjoyed having his photo taken with his many friends."
Body found in search for missing Halkirk man
