The parents of Barra schoolgirl Eilidh MacLeod have confirmed their daughter died in the Manchester attack.
Eilidh, 14, and her friend Laura McIntyre, 15, had been declared missing after the bombing on Monday night – with their families making desperate pleas for help in finding the girls.
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Laura McIntyre was found being treated for serious burns in a hospital in Manchester but Eilidh has now been confirmed dead following the blast.
Paying tribute to Eilidh, her family said in a statement: “Our family is devastated and words cannot express how we feel at losing our darling Eilidh.
“Eilidh was vivacious and full of fun. She loved all music whether it was listening to Ariana or playing the bagpipes with her pipe band.
“As a family we would like to express our thanks and gratitude for the support and kind messages we have received at this difficult time.”
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Rev Dr Lindsay Schluter, minister of Church of Scotland Barra and South Uist congregations, said: “As time was going on these fears were rising that Eilidh was among those who had died.
“To have these fears confirmed has come as devastating news to all.
“While this is a small community, it is a strong and deeply caring one also.
“This was in evidence at yesterday evening’s service of prayer for the two girls and their families.
“This island community will continue to offer its love, support and prayer to each other.
“As we grieve with Eilidh’s family now, we continue to watch and wait over Laura and her family.”