By Stephanie Todd BBC Scotland news website

Flowers and toys have been left in Rory's memory

People in the Deans area of town said they were struggling to comprehend news that a missing person search had become a hunt for a killer.

Rory's body was found in woods under an old tent, three days after he was last seen.

His classmates have been among those who have left flowers near the scene.

Local mothers and fathers, as well as school friends and well-wishers, were among those leaving messages of condolence on Tuesday.

One card said Rory's smile had "touched the hearts of those of us who don't know you."

Another message read: "Gentle Jesus up above, look after Rory with all our love."

It hasn't sunk in to my grandchildren yet, they're asking about it but what do we tell them? Alfred Boswell

Anger at the crime committed was also apparent. One card stated: "Children should be watched over by angels, not become them."

Teddy bears and toys were also placed in the youngster's memory.

Local people spoke of their fear that a killer may still be nearby.

Alfred Boswell, whose two grandchildren attend Meldrum Primary School where Rory was also a pupil, said he was not going to "let them out my sight".

'Complete shock'

He added: "I can't believe what has happened. The news that wee Rory was killed came as a complete shock.

"We knew he was missing, but thought he'd just ran off and would turn up safe and well.

"It hasn't sunk in to my grandchildren yet, they're asking about it but what do we tell them?

"Right now we are just trying to keep them as safe as possible."

Rory's mother dropped him off at this underpass

Another parent, who did not want to be named, added: "I'll be keeping a close eye on my wee one. Any parent would be scared to let their kids out right now.

"You don't think these things will happen in your home town. I think right now everyone's thoughts are with Rory's parents."

Local resident Diane Fleming left flowers near where Rory's body was discovered.

She said: "I didn't know Rory or his family but I wanted to pay my respects.

"Everyone in Deans is scared. Kids are going to school and not coming back.

"This is 2005, this like this should not still be happening. It's frightening."

Foot patrols

Officers from Lothian and Borders Police now have a visible presence in and around the Deans area.

Patrols can be seen walking through the wooded area from the underpass where was Rory dropped off by his mother to walk to school, to the spot where his body was found.

Police officers have also been stationed outside the local supermarket to reassure locals.

A community officer will spend the rest of the week at Meldrum Primary and counselling has been offered to staff and pupils.