Men in court over Falkirk canal murder Published duration 30 May 2016

image copyright Police Scotland image caption Russell Roberston was found near the Forth and Clyde canal

Two men have appeared in court charged with murdering a 27-year-old by pushing him over a canal bridge and hitting his hands as he clutched safety rails.

The body of Russell Robertson was found near Grahams Road in the Bankside area of Falkirk at about 05:00 on Sunday.

Mark Munro, 30, and James Robertson, 26, are alleged to have attacked Mr Robertson on Bainsford Bridge.

Neither man made a plea at Falkirk Sherriff Court, and both were remanded in custody.

The pair are accused of assaulting Mr Robertson, grabbing him by the neck and restraining him before pushing him over the side of the bridge and punching his hands as he was hanging from the railings.

Following his death, Mr Robertson's family said: "We are totally devastated at the loss of Russell. He was much loved son, brother, nephew and uncle."

Det Insp Alec Cameron, of the major investigation team, said: "Our sincere condolences are with Russell's family and friends at this sad time.

"I want to thank the local community for their support and reassure people that we'll use all resources at our disposal to ensure a thorough investigation into Russell's death.

"We're urging anyone who may be able to assist with our inquiries, particularly anyone in the Graham's Road area shortly before 03:30 on Sunday morning, to get in touch as soon as possible."