Human remains which were found in woodland on the outskirts of Ballater have been formally identified after nearly six months of investigation.
The family of the dead male have been informed, but told police they do not wish the name of their relative to be released as it would cause them “distress”.
Police launched the investigation after a member of the public made the discovery on the Invercauld Estate on May 4 this year.
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The area was cordoned off for several days as forensic examinations were carried out in the woodland approximately half a mile from the main Ballater to Braemar Road.
A police spokeswoman last night confirmed the body had been identified and said: “The family have said they do not wish to be named nor the male relative to be named as it would be too distressing for them at this time.
“The body had been there for many years.”
The discovery sparked speculation with some residents believing it could be the body of a missing person who vanished in the Ballater area more than a decade ago.
Invercauld Estate is in the Cairngorms National Park in Royal Deeside.
It is known for its spectacular scenery and is popular with tourists and fishermen travelling to the area to stay close to the River Dee.