No prosecution over missing Renee

The MacRaes' disappearance has been a mystery for 30 years

The Crown Office has decided not to take criminal proceedings over the disappearance of a Highland mother and her son 30 years ago.

Renee MacRae and three-year-old Andrew, went missing in November 1976.

Northern Constabulary had earlier claimed to have "closed the evidential gap" after reopening the investigation.

However, a spokesman said that there was insufficient evidence to go to court. Police insisted the case would remain open.

Margaret Ross, Renee MacRae's housekeeper, said: "I am so, so disappointed.

"This is the 13th and it is an unlucky day.

"It is terrible news and I thought this time that there was some hope of a solution to the mystery.

"I just feel now that this was our last hope."

DNA tests

The Crown Office statement said: "Following full and careful consideration of the detailed review report submitted in September 2006 by Northern Constabulary, Crown counsel has concluded that there is insufficient evidence for criminal proceedings against any person at this time.

"As with all major unsolved investigations, the case will remain open.

"Should any further evidence come to light in this long-running inquiry it will be carefully considered by Northern Constabulary and the procurator fiscal."

Renee MacRae separated from her husband the year of her disappearance and lived with her sons Gordon and Andrew.

She was last seen driving out of Inverness with her younger child.

Her car was found in a lay-by on the old A9 near Dalmagarry.

Her son Gordon MacRae, 38, said last month that officers carried out DNA tests on him earlier in the year to try to uncover fresh clues.

But he said that he held little hope of a conviction in the case.