By Mark Mackay

NEIGHBOURS OF murdered Perth man Raymond Boyd yesterday spoke of their shock that his body could have lain undiscovered for up to a month.

Police launched a major investigation after the 60-year-old’s body was found in a first floor flat in North Methven Street on Friday afternoon.

Officers immediately cordoned off the area to carry out a full forensic examination of the scene.

While the force has confirmed that Mr Boyd’s death is being treated as murder, investigators have not yet revealed how he died.

Described by neighbours as a quiet, reserved man, he is understood to have lived alone, although police said he was well-known locally and often had visitors.

One neighbour, who declined to be named, said, “He was a quiet guy who kept himself to himself and I only knew him to speak to in the passing.

“It’s terrible to think that he was lying there for all that time and nobody knew.”

Shopkeeper Safdar Ali, who has run a convenience store in North Methven Street for more than 10 years, said the deceased had once been a regular customer, buying alcohol and other goods.

However, he said, he had not seen him for some time.

He spoke of his surprise that Mr Boyd’s plight had gone unnoticed for so long.

“On Friday evening I saw the police and CID everywhere and I wondered what was happening,” Mr Ali said.

“It was only the following day that I found out.

“Many customers were talking about it.

“He was a very quiet man and rarely spoke, but he used to come in here often.”

The shopkeeper added, “It really shocks me that someone could have been lying there for nearly four weeks.

“I can’t believe that no one asked where this guy had gone.

“I can’t understand people not taking notice of their neighbours.”

Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Roddy Ross said officers needed to speak to anyone who might have seen or heard from Mr Boyd in the last four weeks.

Mr Ross said, “It is vital that we piece together his last known movements.”

“Raymond lived alone in the flat but was well known locally and had a number of visitors.

“If anyone has any information that they think may assist us with our inquiries, I would urge them to get in touch with us.”

The police incident room can be reached by calling 01738 621141.