Family pay tribute to 'loving' teacher after search near Bullers of Buchan concludes

A family have been left "devastated" at the loss of their son who went missing as he rock climbed near the Bullers of Buchan.

Owain Bristow, 34, was last seen in the area at around 7.35pm on Friday August 21. 

Emergency services, including the RNLI and coastguard, started a search for the Robert Gordon's College head of biology, after it was believed he had fallen off the north-east cliffs. 

Police Scotland have confirmed they have now concluded the search. 

Speaking on behalf of the family, Owain's dad Charles said: "We are all devastated at the loss of Owain. He was a dearly loved and loving son, brother, uncle and partner. 

"Owain's enthusiasm for outdoor pursuits and passion for teaching were obvious to all who met him. We are touched by the many heartfelt tributes we have received from Owain's friends, colleagues and pupils. 

"We would like to thank the coastguard, RNLI and Police Scotland for all their efforts to find him." 

Officers, however, are urging people to come forward with any information or sightings of Owain despite the search being called off. 

Detective Inspector Martin Macdougall said: "Our searches may have concluded for now, but this remains an open missing person investigation and we will act on any information that comes our way.

"Our thoughts are with Owain's family at this time, as they come to terms with a tragic loss."

Anyone with information should call Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident reference 3552 of August 21.