Martin Hamilton: Body of the man known as 'The Blackhill Butcher' found chopped up in a wood

The man was on the run from police after breaching the conditions of his parole

(PA)

The body of a fugitive gangster dubbed “The Blackhill Butcher” has been found in a West Lothian woodland.

Martin Hamilton was given a life sentence in 2000 for a string of crimes, including drug offences, abduction and torture.

Hamilton was released on parole last year, but was later part of a manhunt after he breached the conditions of his release, with the police issuing a warrant for his arrest.

Police were called to a remote woodland near West Calder after a dog walker discovered the dismembered body of Hamilton.

It is believed Hamilton may have been killed by one of his criminal rivals, with the Mirror reporting that police sources have said initial an initial examination shows severe head injuries.

It has also been reported that a second site is also being investigated by police, with fears his body may have been cut up and dumped in various locations.

The news comes after police announced a £2000 reward for information leading to Hamilton's arrest.