A MAJOR search to locate a missing microlight plane in Stirling has been stood down, police have confirmed.

Officials from a range of agencies descended on the area near to Cambusbarron in the hopes of recovering the aircraft.

However, following extensive inquiries, the search has been called off.

Officers are now treating the incident as a well-intentioned false alarm.

Inspector Anton Stephenson from Stirling Police Station said: “I would like to thank our colleagues from Killin, Ochils and Lomond Mountain Rescue Teams, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and the Scottish Ambulance Service who have helped with the comprehensive search.

“We have carried out a number of enquiries and are satisfied that the report was made with good intent.

“I would like to thank those members of the public who supported the teams and those who have contacted us with information to help with our investigations.”

The alarm was raised after members of the public thought they spotted a small plane coming down in the woodlands near to the M80 at around 4pm yesterday.