Missing toddler found dead in river just an hour after going missing

A search for a two-year-old boy ended in tragedy soon after he was reported missing when his body was recovered from a fast-flowing river.

Emergency services were called to the Bridge of Cally in Highland Perthshire after the child went missing from his home nearby late on Sunday morning.

A Police Scotland helicopter was involved in the search before the boy was found in the River Ericht, close to the property, just over an hour later. Paramedics treated the child at the scene but were unable to save him.

A police spokesman said: "He was removed from the water by fire personnel and treated by paramedics, who had attended the scene with the air ambulance. Tragically, the boy did not survive. His family are being supported by officers at this time."

John Swinney, the MSP for Perthshire North, expressed his sympathy on social media, tweeting: "Heartbreaking news from the River Ericht at Bridge of Cally. My deepest sympathies to everyone involved."

Liz Grant, a local councillor, said the incident was devastating for the family and the small rural community, adding: "The River Ericht is fast, the rivers are all fast coming down through that area, particularly at this time of year."