The family of a teenager murdered 26 years after his aunt’s unsolved killing have appealed for justice.

Jack Doyle was found stabbed to death behind houses in Greenock, Inverclyde, more than two weeks ago.

It emerged he was the nephew of 16-year-old Elaine Doyle, who was raped and killed on her way home from a disco in June 1986. The crime has never been solved.

On Wednesday, the family of 17-year-old Mr Doyle released a statement calling on those responsible for his murder to be caught.

They said: "Jack was a very loving and caring son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend. He was a very popular boy, had a number of close pals, but also loved to spend time at home with his family.

"Our family is very close and this has totally devastated all of us. It is hard to even think that we will ever cope with the grief. At this moment we are just taking each day as it comes hoping that the person or people responsible for murdering Jack are brought to justice.

"Our entire family continues to appeal to anyone, if you have any information about Jack's death, then please contact the police."

The teenager's body was discovered at the rear of houses on Hope Street, near Antigua Street, less than two miles from the spot where his aunt's body was discovered more than 25 years ago.

Blood had been found in a nearby close in Antigua Street hours before the discovery of Mr Doyle’s body at around 9.45am.

Detective Chief Inspector Duncan Sloan, who is leading the investigation, said: "This is clearly a very upsetting and trying time for the family, who are still reeling from the violent death of their beloved son.

"We are continuing extensive inquiries, and we would urge anyone who knows anything about the murder to get in touch. It is imperative we trace the person responsible."

The victim’s 69-year-old grandfather, Jack Doyle Snr, died earlier this month after campaigning for years for the killer of his daughter Elaine to be caught.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the incident room at Greenock Police Office on 01475 492 505.

IN DETAIL

• Fresh tragedy for family of murdered Greenock teenager
• Murdered teenager 'didn't have a bad bone in his body'