Police have confirmed that a body found yesterday evening at Port Edgar, near South Queensferry, was that of Scott Hutchison.

In a statement, Hutchison’s family said they were “utterly devastated with the tragic loss of our beloved Scott.”

They added: “Despite his disappearance, and the recent concerns over his mental health, we had all remained positive and hopeful that he would walk back through the door, having taken some time away to compose himself.”

“He was passionate, articulate and charismatic, as well as being one of the funniest and kindest people we knew. Friends and family would all agree that he had a brilliant sense of humour and was a great person to be around.”

“In addition to his musical success, Scott was a wonderful son, brother, uncle and friend. Despite whatever else was going on in his life he always had time for those he cared for.”

“Depression is a horrendous illness that does not give you any alert or indication as to when it will take hold of you. Scott battled bravely with his own issues for many years and we are immensely proud of him for being so open with his struggles.”

Often speaking candidly about his mental health issues in interviews and through his music, his family said that this openness had helped many others.

“His willingness to discuss these matters in the public domain undoubtedly raised awareness of mental health issues and gave others confidence and belief to discuss their own issues.”

“Scott, like many artists, wore his heart on his sleeve and that was evident in the lyrics of his music and the content of many of his social media posts.”

The Frightened Rabbit frontman was reported missing by his family following a series of worrying Tweets sent by the singer. Hutchison was last seen leaving the Dakota Hotel in South Queensferry near Edinburgh at around 1am on Wednesday 9th May.

Earlier in the evening he tweeted: “Be so good to everyone you love. It’s not a given. I’m so annoyed that it’s not. I didn’t live by that standard and it kills me. Please, hug your loved ones.”

This was followed by another shortly after which said: “I’m away now. Thanks.”

His brother and bandmate Grant appealed for help on social media earlier in the week; he also thanked people for the widespread sharing of Scott’s image in the hope he would be found.

The family have thanked everyone for their support over the last few days. “To all of those who have come forward with such kind messages of support over the past couple of days, we wish to express our most sincerest of thanks.”

They added: “We have been overwhelmed by the love that has been conveyed, not only to Scott, but to our family. It means the world to us.”

Tributes have poured in for the singer on Twitter. Stuart Murdoch of Belle and Sebastian said: “Tragic news about Scott Hutchison. The whole music community in Scotland was praying for a different outcome.”

He added: “Folks, if you are up against it, having dark thoughts, please tell someone, family, a friend or a doctor. There is always another way, though it might not seem like it.”

Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon described the news as “heartbreaking”, adding that Hutchison was “a remarkable and much loved talent.”

Lead singer of Franz Ferdinand Alex Kapranos tweeted: “awful news about Scott Hutchison. A terrible loss.”

The family have now asked for privacy to help come to terms with their loss.

If you are affected by any of the issues in this story, the organisations below can help:

- The Samaritans – 24 hour confidential help and advice
- CALM (The Campaign Against Living Miserably for young men)
- YOUNG MINDS – The voice for young people’s health and wellbeing
- Cruse Bereavement Care – help if you're struggling with grief