Body found off Orkney coast confirmed as missing monk Justin Evans

A body found off the coast of an island in Orkney has been confirmed as a monk who was reported missing last month.

Justin Evans was last seen within Golgotha Monastery at Papa Stronsay shortly before midnight on Saturday, April 11.

The 24-year-old, who speaks with a New Zealand accent, was last seen wearing a black robe.

Days after his disappearance, Bishop Hugh Gilbert of the Diocese of Aberdeen said he had learned “with deep sadness” of the presumed death of Mr Evans.

On Wednesday, police confirmed a body had been recovered from the water around 7.35am near the island where Evans was last seen.

Officers have since confirmed the body has been formally identified as Mr Evans. His relatives are aware.

There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death, and a report has been submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.

A previous statement from Bishop Hugh read: “The Diocese has learned with deep sadness of the disappearance and presumed death of Justin Evans, also known as Brother Ignatius, aged 24, a member of the Redemptorist Community on the island of Papa Stronsay.

“It is believed that he came to harm in conditions involving the sea. The local police and coastguard services have now called off their searches.

“Brother Ignatius was known for his humility and charity, and our prayers are with his community and family at this difficult time.”