By Paul Reoch

SPECIALIST POLICE officers have searched a popular boating pond in Perth as they investigate the death of a local man.

James Kerr (51) was found on a footpath in the South Inch at around 4.40am on Sunday, April 22, with serious head injuries, and taken to Ninewells Hospital, where he died.

Detective Chief Inspector Roddy Ross, said last night his officers searched the pond—widely used by families in the summer—as part of their investigation.

He said, “Perth and Kinross Council drain the boating pond, as they do from time to time, as part of their maintenance programme.

“We took the opportunity to search for specific items of property relating to the death of Mr Kerr.

“Specialist search-trained officers have been working in the area.

“Due to the rain this week, it made the search difficult but it is now complete.”

He continued, “We are grateful to Perth and Kinross Council for their co-operation in helping us carry out this search.”

A council spokesman said the pond was drained at the request of the police.

The council spokesman added, “After we had taken advice from SEPA and the SSPCA, Tayside Contracts worked for around a week to drain the pond.

“They were assisted on one afternoon by Tayside Fire and Rescue.

“We have been advised that the police have now finished their investigation at the pond.”

The pond will be cleaned and refilled.

Officers were on the South Inch during the weekend following the death of Mr Kerr, a council worker, seeking additional information.

Mr Ross continued, “We have had a number of calls with regard to our inquiries and are very grateful to the public for their assistance in this matter.”

The police are still seeking a man seen speaking to Mr Kerr around 2am on April 22 near the monument in the South Inch.

He was around 5ft 10in with fair or light brown hair and wearing a white or light-coloured bomber jacket.

Three men have appeared in Perth Sheriff Court charged in connection with the death of Mr Ross.