TRIBUTES have been paid to an East Lothian father who sadly died at the weekend after his body was found next to a burning off-road motorcycle.

The man has been named locally as Craig Sneddon, from Wallyford, a former Musselburgh Grammar School pupil.

His body was discovered on land off Hadfast Road, near Cousland in Midlothian – near to Ormiston, Carberry and the route of the Pencaitland Railway Walk –  on Sunday morning.

Police have been spotted in Wallyford this week as part of their enquiries.

Since news was shared of Craig’s death, tributes from family, friends and neighbours have been flooding in.

Many described the loss as “devastating”, with others calling Craig “such a lovely lad”, a “wee diamond” and that he will be “very much missed by many”.

East Lothian Courier: He was found on land off Hadfast Road near Cousland in Midlothian. Image Google Maps

Craig's body was found in Cousland, Midlothian. Image: Google Maps

One friend said: “You were a loved wee guy. You were like a brother to me for all those years.”

Another friend added: “Craig was my kid’s friend all through childhood at Wallyford school, a nice guy who never walked by you. Rest in peace Craig.”

And now an online fundraising page has been set up to give Craig the send-off he deserves.

Organiser Michelle Major said: “Everyone has heard the sad news about Craig Sneddon, he may have been known as wee Craig but he had a big heart and was well liked by everyone who knew him.

“Thought we could help his sisters who have lost so much already and now a brother to help take a bit pressure off them while they try come to terms with this tragic loss. RIP Craig.”

An initial target of £3,000 was set; in less than 24 hours, more than £2,900 has been raised.

To donate, visit gofundme.com/f/craig-sheddon

Police are still to formally identify the body; his death is being treated as “unexplained” and enquiries are ongoing.

SEE MORE: 'Unexplained' death near to East Lothian county boundary investigated

Witnesses are being asked to contact police.

Detective Chief Inspector Bryan Burns, of Lothian & Borders CID, said: “We are carrying out extensive enquiries in order to establish exactly what has happened prior to the man being found dead during the morning of Sunday.

“He was found on a path in woodland to the west of the village of Cousland where it runs under the A68 road, which we know is regularly used by locals.

“We are appealing to anyone who may have seen a fire or heard any activity in the area overnight or in the early hours of Sunday to get in touch.

“We would also be keen to speak to anyone who may have been driving in the area around Cousland or on the A68 who may have seen the fire or who may have dashcam footage.

“If you have any information you can call 101, quoting incident 0931 of January 17.”

Meanwhile a 24-year-old man, Jordan Dickson, appeared in Edinburgh Sheriff Court yesterday (Tuesday) in connection with an assault as part of the police investigation.

He faced another charge of attempting to defeat the ends of justice.

He made no plea, was committed for further examination and was remanded in custody with another appearance due within eight days.