Man died walking from Lesmahagow

Around 4.35am on September 23, the body of Robert Finlayson (22) of Hamilton, was found on B7078 Carlisle Road, just north of the Draffan Road, Blackwood.

It is believed that Mr Finlayson was struck by an HGV and carried for a number of miles before being found.

Inspector Calum Maider, Motherwell Road Policing Unit, said today (Saturday): “We now know that Mr Finlayson left a friend’s home in Lesmahagow around 3.10am on Monday morning intending to walk home.

“He was wearing a black coloured tracksuit top and bottoms and carrying a black rucksack.

“He was seen on CCTV around 0410 hours, standing on the north side of the over bridge of the M74 motorway Junction 10 and then heading north on the northbound carriageway of the B7078, where it appears he was attempting to hitchhike.

“Several northbound vehicles are seen moving onto the opposing lane to pass him safely.

“However, he has then been struck by a vehicle and carried underneath it for a distance of three miles.”

An he added: “It is entirely possible that the driver of the vehicle that struck him, believed to be an unmarked light coloured Mercedes Actros tractor unit towing a tri-axel rigid step framed trailer, is not aware that they hit him.

“This was a tragic incident in which a young man died and we, and indeed Robert’s family, need to know how this happened.

“Due to a road closure on the M74 on Monday last week, more than 40 vehicles, most of which would have been heavy goods vehicles delivering to large retail outlets, were diverted off the motorway and onto the B7078 between 0400-0430 hours.

“It is imperative that we identify these drivers, some of who I am pretty sure are on that road at the same time every week.

“At this time, we are not looking for a suspect or an accused for this.

“All drivers who use this route are potential witnesses to this incident.”

Information can be given to Police Scotland on the non emergency number 101 or call the Roads Policing Unit, Motherwell Police Office on 01698 483000.