Police say ‘caring’ father and ‘loving’ son found dead after Scottish Highlands hike likely died in fall

The pair’s family have paid tribute after two bodies were found earlier this week. They said of 12-year-old Richie: “He always cared for others no matter what.”

A father and his 12-year-old son found dead after going for a hike in the Scottish Highlands likely died as the result of a fall, police say.

Tom Parry, 49, and 12-year-old Richie were due to return to their Cheshire home on Wednesday after visiting Glen Nevis and Glencoe.

Their car was found in the Three Sisters car park in Glencoe where they stopped the day before to go hillwalking.

In an update on Thursday, Police Scotland said two bodies had been found during a search in the area on Wednesday evening.

In a statement released through Police Scotland on Friday, their family said: “Tom was a caring and loving father to his children and a loving husband to me, his wife Gemma. Richie was an energetic, loving boy who loved his quizzes, maths, and sports. He always cared for others as well no matter what.

“We would like to take this chance to thank the Scottish and Cheshire police as well as the mountain rescue service along with all the other emergency services involved in finding Richie and Tom.”

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The statement also thanked the community of Alsager and friends who have supported the family.

“Tom and Richie will be sadly missed and never forgotten,” it added.

There are no suspicious circumstances and their deaths are being treated as the result of a fall, Police Scotland said.

Inspector Katy Duncan said: “Our thoughts remain with the Parry family at what is a very difficult time for them.

“We would like to thank everyone who responded to our appeal, to all emergency services and Mountain Rescue volunteers.”