Detectives have issued a renewed appeal as they investigate the murder of a man shot dead in rural Perthshire – as they suggested neighbours may have the answers.

Brian Low, 65, was found dead on Saturday February 17 on a rural path in Pitilie, on the outskirts of Aberfeldy, accompanied by his black Labrador.

Emergency services were alerted after Mr Low was found at around 8.30am, but his death was initially attributed to natural causes.

During a post-mortem examination six days later, it was discovered Mr Low, who retired from his job as a groundsman at the Edradynate Estate last year, had been shot.

Police Scotland defended their initial treatment of the death as “non-suspicious” but admitted evidence may have been lost in the delay setting up a crime scene, which happened on February 21 as soon as concerns were raised about the cause of death.

On March 9, officers spoke to 145 people in the space of two hours, as they stopped 18 pedestrians and 118 vehicles at the scene, in the town centre and on the A827 north of Aberfeldy.

Investigating officers said they are “open-minded” about the motive and “confident the answer lies in the local community”.

Mr Low’s family are being given support by specialist officers.

Detective Superintendent Lorna Ferguson, of the Major Investigation Team, said: “Extensive inquiries into Brian’s death are continuing and I would urgently appeal to anyone with information who has not already spoken with us to please do so.

“We have carried out a number of additional lines of inquiry in the last few days and it’s important we remain open-minded about a possible motive in this case.

“Incidents like this are thankfully extremely rare and we understand the significant impact this has had on the people of Aberfeldy.

“We are confident the answer to this investigation lies within the local community. Somebody knows something.

“Even if you feel the information you hold is not important, we would still ask you to contact us. It could be crucial to getting the answers we need for Brian’s family.

“Anyone in the surrounding area with dashcam, private CCTV or doorbell footage from near the time of his death is asked to speak with the inquiry team.

“We are fully committed to tracing whoever is responsible as soon as possible.

“There will continue to be a significant police presence in the area while our investigation is ongoing. This includes uniformed and plain-clothed officers from division and the Major Investigation Team.

“We are still carrying out door-to-door inquiries and speaking with local business owners.

“Anyone with concerns or questions is encouraged to approach these officers or call 101 for advice.

“Brian’s family are obviously completely devastated and heartbroken by what has happened. They are still being supported by specialist officers and wish their privacy to be respected.

“It’s absolutely vital we find who did this, and we need the ongoing support of the public as our inquiries continue. If you know anything that could help, please get in touch.”

The public can submit information online, call 101, quoting reference number 0884 of February 17, or contact Crimestoppers.