THE family of a fisherman who went missing last week have thanked all those involved in the search for him but say there is no chance he will be found alive.
Alasdair Macleod, 57, from Applecross in Wester Ross, was reported missing after his boat Varuna was found on rocks north of Applecross Bay.
The coastguard, police, RNLI and local volunteers have been searching the area.
Via Mr Macleod’s blog, his family said they had been inundated with messages of support.
They wrote: “Ali is still missing.
“The first intensive search has been called off and it is clear that there is no chance at all that he will be found alive.
“There is still some official and unofficial searching going on, as and when resources allow.
“We’re all very grateful for all the effort that people have put into this; the police, RNLI and coastguards could not have done a more thorough and professional job.
“We are very moved by the commitment of all the local volunteers who willingly sacrificed their time to search the sea and coastline with the hope of finding any sign of him.
“Thanks to all who have offered support of all kinds, calling in with food and flowers and warm hugs.”
Mr Macleod is believed to have been wearing orange oilskins and yellow wellington boots when he set off to go fishing in his creel boat.
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