Prominent politicians from across the country have shared their sympathies with the family of tragic Alesha MacPhail after her killer was sentenced. 

Aaron Campbell, 16, who abducted, raped and murdered six-year-old Alesha on the Isle of Bute has been sentenced to life imprisonment and told he must spend at least 27 years behind bars.

Messages have flooded in in support of Alesha's family following the ordeal of the trial. 

READ MORE: Alesha MacPhail: Aaron Campbell sentenced to 27 years for rape and murder of six-year-old

Nicola Sturgeon said on Twitter: "It's impossible for any of us to comprehend the pain and anguish of Alesha's family.

"I just hope that in time they can draw some comfort from knowing so many are thinking of them - and cherish the memories of the beautiful wee girl who graced their lives."

Scottish Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf also tweeted: "My thoughts very much with the family and friends of Alesha MacPhail.

READ MORE: Alesha MacPhail: Aaron Campbell sentenced to 27 years in live-stream

"My deepest sympathies for the unimaginable trauma and horror they have experienced. There are no words."

Others on Twitter also shared their thoughts following the trial. 

Kirsty Blackman MP said: "There are no words. My heart goes out to Alesha’s parents."

Campbell was convicted at the High Court in Glasgow last month where a jury found him guilty unanimously, following a nine-day trial.

READ MORE: Aaron Campbell said it ‘took everything’ to stop him from laughing during trial

He could not be identified during the trial due to his age but following his conviction judge Lord Matthews lifted a ban on revealing his identity.

Alesha's body was found in woods on the Isle of Bute on July 2 last year, hours after she was reported missing from the house her father shared with his parents and partner on the island, where the schoolgirl was staying for part of the summer holidays.

Read more of today's top Glasgow stories.