Police confirm human remains are that of Duncan Sim

Human remains found in the water off a St Andrews beach have been formally identified as a missing student.

Duncan Sim, 19, was last seen leaving a night out at Madras Rugby Club in the Fife town on March 14.

He failed to return to his accommodation and was reported missing the following day.

More than 100 volunteers joined specialists in the search, and partial remains were discovered by a member of the public on West Sands beach on June 3.

In a statement released through Police Scotland, Mr Sim's family said: "We are heartbroken by the loss of Duncan, our much loved son, brother, uncle and friend.

"We are very grateful for all the support that we received from the public, especially the Fife and Scottish Borders communities, during the search for Duncan.

"We would also like to extend our thanks to Police Scotland for their efforts and support throughout the course of their investigations.

"We respectfully request privacy at this difficult time.''

Chief Inspector Steven Hamilton thanked volunteers from St Andrews and the teenager's hometown of Duns for helping in the search.

He said: "This has been a terrible loss of a young man's life and our thoughts and condolences are with Duncan's family and friends.

"Their courage and cooperation over the course of our investigation has been commendable and we will continue to provide them with support and assistance as they come to terms with this tragic news.

"I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to all the members of the public who assisted with our inquiries by sharing our appeals information and supporting our search activity.'