Tributes have been paid to the family of a north fisherman who is missing presumed dead after falling overboard in rough seas.
Police confirmed last night that 25-year-old Craig Reid, from the Black Isle, was lost off the Apollo about 20 miles north west of Kirkwall on Monday morning.
A major search was launched in the waters around Orkney but this was later stood down. And last night, a Shetland Coastguard spokesman confirmed that no further searches will be taking place for the young father.
It is the second time tragedy has struck the Apollo, after 26-year-old William Reid – believed to be a cousin of Craig – died in September 2007 after falling from the trawler into the North Sea. His father, also William Reid, managed to drag him back on board but he could not be saved.
As the news filtered through social media yesterday, several friends left messages of sympathy to Craig Reid’s family on social media.
Kirsty Maclennan said: “It is devastating enough when we see these tragedies in the news, but when it is someone we all know it is just beyond words.
“My thoughts and prayers are with Craigs family & friends and especially thinking of little Keiran. His Daddy will be the ‘brightest star in the sky.'”
Trena Mackenzie said: “Thinking of Craig’s family and friends and especially his lovely fiancée Laura. Devastating news of another young life lost too soon.”
Darren Patience said: “Truly horrible and very sad!! Thoughts go out to the family!!”
Last night detective Inspector Scott MacDonald said: “I would like to thank all those who have assisted in the search efforts so far. Sadly, Mr Reid has not been found.
“My thoughts are with his family and friends at this time. A full joint investigation is to be carried out between Police Scotland and the Marine Accident Investigation Branch.”
A major search was launched for Mr Reid on Monday after the boat’s crew put out a distress call at 7am to report they had a man overboard.
Rescue helicopters from Sumburgh and Stornoway were involved along with the Stromness lifeboat, which was later stood down after encountering “heavy breaking seas” in the Hoy Sound and westerly force seven to eight winds.
The search also involved two military jets, a French Dassault Falcon and a US P8 Poseidon, diverted from the Exercise Joint Warrior war games taking place in the north. The search was stood down at 3pm.
