Human remains confirmed as 'dangerous' wanted man

Human remains discovered by a dog walker in woods have been identified as one of Scotland's most wanted men.

Martin Hamilton, 53, had been hunted by police since September 2014 after he breached the terms of his licence following his release from prison.

A £2,000 reward was offered for information on the "dangerous" convict's whereabouts last October.

A dog walker discovered remains, later confirmed as human, in a wooded area beside the B7105 at West Calder, West Lothian, last Thursday.

Police have now identified them as Hamilton's remains.

His family have been informed and a post-mortem examination will take place early next week.

The death is being treated as unexplained and a report will be sent to the procurator fiscal.

Detective Superintendent Kenny Graham said: "My condolences go out to the family of Martin Hamilton, who have had to receive such devastating news so close to Christmas.

"A team of officers is dedicated to this inquiry, so we can seek to give them answers as quickly as possible.

"We are continuing to conduct examinations with various scientific experts to establish exactly when and how Mr Hamilton died, and to ensure any evidence available can be captured from the scene and from the remains themselves.

"Work will be ongoing at the site near West Calder for several more days whilst we complete further searches and specialists carry out their work, so the area will stay closed off and the B7105 will also remain closed."

Police had believed Hamilton was hiding out with the financial assistance of others as he had not withdrawn any money following his disappearance.