By Laura Alderman

The mum of a man who lay dead in his flat for weeks after it was padlocked by a council says she'll hold them responsible "till the day she dies".

The body of Jane Grant's son Michael Stewart, 32, was found in a flat on Balnagask Avenue in Torry, Aberdeen on March 8.

Police broke into the property after his family reported him missing.

It is believed a workman called to the flat on February 12 did not check the inside of the home before installing the lock.

Mrs Grant told STV News she is "heartbroken" and "struggling to keep it together" in the wake of her son's death.

The council is now updating its policy for securing homes which are believed to be vacant.

Mrs Grant, who moved to Yorkshire 19 months ago, said: "What more could I do? I was 400 miles away.

"He's a grown man. He was the kindest person who would do anything for anyone.

"I will not stop fighting for my boy. It's now costing me £6000 for his funeral."

An Aberdeen City Council spokesman said: "We have spoken to the family of Michael Stewart and our thoughts remain with all those affected by his death. A report has been submitted by Police Scotland to the procurator fiscal and Aberdeen City Council has supported police in their investigations.

"We have carried out a review of the council's actions and can confirm the property was locked in February following an insecure external door being reported.

"We are committed to updating our procedures in relation to securing properties that are believed to be vacant.

"We will continue to liaise with Mr Stewart's family and provide support. We respect the privacy of the family at this time and it would not be appropriate to comment further."