Tributes to singer who died during Hogmanay hike

Tributes have been paid to a singer and businessman who died during a Hogmanay hike with his dog in the Arrochar Alps mountains.

Andrew Ure was reported overdue from a hike on Ben Vane, the day after his 41st birthday, at about 17:30.

His family said he was found several hours later. Ure was pronounced dead at the scene.

They said he was an experienced hillwalker and familiar with the area, and his dog Penny was found alive by his side.

His brother said: "He just wanted to go out and get some fresh air. Blow the cobwebs away."

Arrochar Mountain Rescue (AMR) said Police Scotland led the search, with support from a rescue helicopter.

Ure was a singer with Falkirk band The Ray Summers, who have supported acts including Paolo Nutini and Doves.

He launched the Vibration music festival in Falkirk in 2019 with his brother and was also a director of The Wee Whisky shop in Linlithgow.

Police Scotland confirmed the alarm was raised around 19:00 on Wednesday.

A spokesperson added: "There are no suspicious circumstances and a report will be submitted to the procurator fiscal."

An AMR spokesman said: "The dog was found alive and unharmed and has since been reunited with the man's family.

"Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the family, friends, and all those affected by this heartbreaking loss."

Ure's partner, Linsey Waddell, paid tribute to him in a Facebook post, describing him as "my guiding light and the biggest star of all".

Ure's brother David wrote on social media that Andrew had been excited about what 2026 had in store and about getting out for a hill walk in his new birthday gear.

"Sadly, he didn't made it home. Massive thanks to the Arrochar Mountain Rescue Team, who the family are truly indebted too," he wrote.

"So many people have lost a part of their world as he meant so much to many!

"For me, I've lost my wee brother, my best pal, my business partner, my sounding board, and the daily reason I used my phone. Heartbroken doesn't even come close."

In a post of social media, The Wee Whisky shop expressed its "profound sadness" at the death of its director.

"Words cannot fully express the pain of this loss, and our thoughts are with Andrew's family at this incredibly difficult time," it said.

"Thank you to everyone who has already reached out with their kind messages and condolences."