A police investigation has been launched after human remains were found in a wooded area of Aberdeenshire.

Officers were called to the scene after a member of the public made the discovery on Friday afternoon.

It is believed that the remains had been laying there for a number of years.

The find took place in the Invercauld Estate just under two miles from Ballater.

A police spokesman confirmed the incident.

He said "Police Scotland recieved a report on Friday of human remains being found a member of the public.

"Enquires are ongoing to establish the identity of the deceased."