Body Found in Search for Belgian Tourist Missing in Scottish Highlands

A body has been found during the search for a Belgian tourist who disappeared while hiking in the Scottish Highlands, Police Scotland has confirmed.

The body was discovered in the Cuillin area of the Isle of Skye at around 2pm on Monday, 14 September. Police said formal identification has not yet taken place, but Mr Patemore’s family has been informed.

Hector Patemore, 45, had been reported missing after failing to return to his accommodation following a planned mountain walk.

Mr Patemore was an experienced hillwalker who had planned to climb Sgurr Na Banachdich before descending via Coire Na Banachdich in the Cuillin Mountains.

He was last seen at approximately 10.45am on Sunday, 13 September, when he left the youth hostel in Glen Brittle, in the Torrin area, to begin his planned route.

When he failed to return and did not make contact with his family, concerns were raised and he was reported missing at around 10.25pm that evening.

Police Scotland subsequently launched a search operation in the mountainous area, with officers appealing to fellow walkers who may have encountered Mr Patemore during his hike.

Police Scotland confirmed on Monday afternoon that a report had been received concerning a body found in the Cuillin area of Skye.

Formal identification is still to be completed, although officers have informed the family of Mr Patemore about the discovery.

Police said the death is not believed to be suspicious. A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal in due course.

The circumstances surrounding the death have not been confirmed, and no further details about the location or condition of the body have been released.

Before the discovery, Sergeant David Mockett said officers were increasingly concerned for Mr Patemore’s wellbeing and urged anyone who had information about his whereabouts to contact police.

He described Mr Patemore as an experienced hillwalker and said the route he had planned was considered relatively straightforward.

Police were particularly keen to speak with people who had been walking in the area on Sunday and might have seen him or had information that could help establish his movements.

The Cuillin Mountains are known for their challenging terrain and remote locations, with changing weather conditions capable of making mountain routes more difficult.

The investigation into the circumstances of the death remains ongoing. Police Scotland has not indicated that anyone else is believed to be involved.

Daily Dazzling Dawn reports that formal identification and further enquiries are expected before the circumstances surrounding Mr Patemore’s death are established.