A body has been discovered in the search for missing hillwalker Ross Kinghorn, who vanished nearly 20 months ago after embarking on a three-day camping trip. The 57 year old hiker was last seen boarding a train from Linlithgow to Blair Atholl on January 16, 2023, with plans to camp in Glen Tilt and tackle the Beinn a’ Ghlo peaks.

His partner, Krystl Ogilbert, issued a heartfelt plea for assistance when he failed to return, while extensive searches were conducted around the Beinn a’ Ghlo area to no avail. Today, police have confirmed that a man’s body was found in Perthshire’s Glenfernate area at approximately 4:50 pm on Tuesday, September 10. While formal identification is pending, authorities have notified Ross’ family of the discovery.

Krystl Ogilbert took to social media this evening to announce the tragic news of Ross’s body being found, expressing gratitude to all those involved in the search efforts, reports the Daily Record.

She stated: “As most of you will be aware it has been nearly 20 months since Ross failed to return from a planned hill walking trip in Blair Atholl. Last night we received a phone call informing us that Ross’s body had been found.”

“Ross’ family would like to ask for their privacy to be respected at this time. Thank you to everyone for their on-going love and support throughout this process.”

The family expressed their heartfelt gratitude: “We would also like to say a special thanks to the teams of dedicated staff and volunteers at Police Scotland MRT (Tayside), Tayside mountain rescue team and their colleagues from further afield for all of their commitment, kindness, love and support throughout this difficult time.”

They also extended an invitation for donations in their loved one’s memory: “In honor of Ross and his love of the hills we would like to invite anyone wishing to donate to the Tayside mountain rescue service.”

Meanwhile, Police Scotland reported: “Around 4.50pm on Tuesday, 10 September, 2024, the body of a man was found in the Glenfernate area of Blairgowrie. Formal identification is yet to take place but the family of missing man Ross Kinghorn has been informed.”

They added, “There do not appear to be any suspicious circumstances and a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.”

In remembrance of Ross, his family has initiated a fundraising appeal for the Tayside Mountain Rescue Association; those wishing to contribute can click here.