TRIBUTES have been paid to a Renfrewshire man who was found dead yesterday, just hours after being reported missing.

Police had issued a plea for information on the whereabouts of 35-year-old David Letham on Tuesday after he was reported missing from the Foxbar area of Paisley.

Hundreds of people shared the online appeal and a search operation was launched as concern grew for his wellbeing.

Tragically, police confirmed yesterday afternoon that a body had been recovered in woods near Bridge of Weir at around 2.40pm.

A flood of heartfelt tributes were paid by David's friends on social media in response to the tragic news.

He was described as "genuinely lovely" and "a cracking guy who will be sadly missed."

One wrote: "It was a privilege knowing you, R.I.P. Davie."

Another added: "Genuinely one of the nicest guys I knew."

Police said the death is not being treated as suspicious and David’s family has been informed.

A spokesperson told The Gazette: “We can confirm that, around 2.40pm, the body of a man was recovered in woods near Bridge of Weir.

“Although formal identification has still to take place, the family of David Letham has been informed.

“Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of what happened but the death is not believed to be suspicious. As with all sudden deaths, a report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal.”

Police also confirmed the death is connected to the discovery of a car that was abandoned in a river next to Hattrick Farm, to the north of Bridge of Weir, shortly after 10am yesterday.

If you need someone to talk to, you can call the Samaritans for free 24 hours a day, seven days a week, on 116 123.

READ MORE: Emergency services race to reports of car in river