Police have written to a north-east community to thank them for their help during the search for a missing kayaker.
Dominic Jackson’s flatmate raised concerns for him on February 5 after he failed to return home to Fettercairn from a trip to Portsoy.
The 35-year-old gardener had been last seen by members of the public leaving the harbour aboard his kayak.
Extensive searches of the coastline by police, the Coastguard and members of the public followed over the next four days.
His body was eventually found on February 9 in the water near Wick.
Now Campbell Thomson, chief superintendent for the north-east division of the police, has written a letter to the community of Portsoy to thank them for their help.
The village had opened its heart to the family of Mr Jackson during the ordeal, offering them lodgings and food while the search was ongoing.
In his letter, Mr Thomson said: “I am writing to express my sincere thanks for the support and assistance provided by the local Portsoy and district community to the Jackson family, Police Scotland and partners during the recent search for Dominic Jackson.
“Despite the very sad circumstances, the tremendous response from the local community was, and continues to be, very much appreciated.”
At the height of the search last month, helicopters and even a coastguard airplane was used to try to locate Mr Jackson.
His family have since launched an effort to prevent anyone else suffering their tragedy.
They want to raise £12,500 to set up a charity to promote the use of personal locator beacons at sea.
Mr Jackson’s sister, Ellie, has said his death could have been “preventable” if he had worn one.
To donate, visit: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/domjackson
