A soon-to-be father who was reported missing after his boat capsized on Loch Awe has been 'sadly lost' to the tragedy.
Kieran Cowan was part of a trio of men who were on board a boat on the Argyll and Bute loch when it capsized at around 4.40pm on Saturday, August 17.
Two of the men were able to swim to a nearby island, but the 23-year-old could not be found by the pair.
Police diving crews and members of the mountain rescue team have spent the past few days searching frantically for Kieran’s whereabouts.
However, a JustGiving page set up by one of Kieran’s close friends states that he has been 'sadly lost' in the accident.
It also reveals that he was due to have a baby with his partner Lisa Reid.
In an emotional statement, Connor Fairley said on the website: “Kieran Cowan was a delight to many people, someone who made everyone laugh and had a heart of gold.
“Kieran had a solid, steady income and after the recent tragedy that will now affect his family.
“It breaks my heart but as everyone know Kieran and Lisa are due to have a little baby girl."
In less than 24-hours since the release of the JustGiving page, hundreds of kindhearted people have donated almost £6,000.
Money donated to the fundraiser will go towards supporting the little baby girl that both Kieran and Lisa were expecting to have together.
Connor adds: “I have never felt so hopeless in my life, so as a very close friend I would like to help as much as possible.
“Our group of friends that Kieran grew up with are doing everything they can to help and I’m sure everyone else would like to do the same.
“Every penny raised will be donated to Lisa Reid to support and provide little comfort for her and their little baby girl.
“We all miss you so much Kieran and we will do everything we can to support your family.”
Kieran’s partner has since thanked all of those for their donations over her personal Facebook account.
She said: “This is so so overwhelming, from the bottom of my heart I cannot thank everyone who has donated and have us all support the past few days.
“The heartache is so raw but this has given me comfort that I know how loved our little princess is already loved by the community.
“Thanks you all so much, I wish I got to thank everyone of you personally.
“KC this is for you my boy.”
A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: "I can confirm the search is ongoing today for missing person Kieran Cowan."
