THE mother of a man whose body was found in a wooded area of Kilmarnock last week has said she is "heartbroken".

Margaret McLean issued a statement via the Missing People Scotland Facebook page to thank everyone who helped in the search for 24-year-old Zak.

His body was discovered at around 11.15am on Thursday, January 19 within a wooded area in Kilmarnock, near to the Knockinlaw Mount.

He vanished from Kilmarnock's Fullerton Street on Wednesday, January 11 at around 8pm. 

Zak was reported missing to police on Friday 13 January.

Margaret said: "I am heartbroken that he will not be coming back.

"I am so humbled for the thousands upon thousands of people who have shown care, love and support.

"He is my son and his spirit lives on walking beside all who loved him. I do believe this.

"RIP my handsome fearless one."

Read: Meet the Glasgow woman behind Facebook phenomenon Missing People Scotland