A fisherman who died after falling overboard from his boat in the Firth of Lorn has been named locally as Eoghann MacLachlan from the Isle of Luing.
Mr MacLachlan’s family paid tribute to the 58-year-old on social media and the Atlantic Islands Centre on Luing has closed its doors this weekend in a mark of respect.
In a tribute to the fisherman, who was also a father, the Clyde Fishermen’s Association said: “Our first thoughts are with his family and friends. They are a very close family and will be facing an unexplainable pain. We would urge all to respect their wishes at this incredibly difficult time.
“Members of the Clyde Fishermen’s Association have lost a much appreciated friend above all else, and a valued colleague.
“The wider community have lost an exceptionally kind, humorous, skilled and hard working person. He was an excellent seafarer with a passion for people and music. An integral part of his community.
“Fundamentally he was a very good man, an uncommonly good sort all round. Indeed the kind of man seldom encountered. Taken far too early, we were all so privileged to have known him. We hope he rests in peace.”
A multi-agency call-out was launched on Wednesday afternoon after the HM Coastguard received reports of the incident near the slate island of Belnahua, around 20 miles south of Oban.
A HM Coastguard spokesperson said: “HM Coastguard received a call just before 4pm on Wednesday December 13, reporting a man overboard from a fishing vessel at Belnahua.
“Oban Coastguard Rescue Team, Oban RNLI lifeboat and a Coastguard helicopter were all sent.”
A Police Scotland spokesperson added: “Around 5.15pm on Wednesday December 13, we were made aware of a boat running aground in the Belnahua area.
“The Coastguard attended and the body of a 58-year-old man was recovered. His next of kin are aware.
“The death is being treated as unexplained but there are not believed to be suspicious circumstances. A report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal.”