Murder investigation launched after body of missing man found in Inverclyde field

A murder investigation has been launched after the body of a missing man was found in a field in Inverclyde.

Police were called after the body of a man was found in a field near High Mathernock Farm in Kilmacolm around 9.20am on Tuesday.

The man has been formally identified as Robert Best, who was reported missing from Greenock on the same day.

The 50-year-old’s family has been made aware, and a murder investigation has been launched.

Two men, aged 44 and 51, have been arrested and charged in connection with Mr Best’s death.

Both were due to appear at Greenock Sheriff Court on Wednesday.

A 45-year-old man was arrested in connection with assault and released pending further enquiries.

Police are also continuing investigations into reports of a disturbance in Lansbury Street, Greenock, which happened between 1pm on November 10 and 3am on November 11.

Detective Chief Inspector Graham McCreadie said: “Our thoughts are with Robert’s family and friends at this time. We are providing them with support as our investigation continues.

“An extensive investigation is being carried out and I am asking anyone who was in the Lansbury Street area or near High Mathernock Farm at those times to get in touch.

“If you have CCTV, private footage or dash-cam footage of that may have captured something, please contact us. Any information, no matter how small it may seem, could be vital.”

An online portal has been set up to encourage members of the public to submit information directly to officers.