Perth Officer Acquitted of Nightclub Assault Allegations Despite Concerns Over Testimony
A Perthshire police officer, Martyn Kelly, 37, has been found not proven on two counts of sexual assault following an incident at the Loft nightclub on South Street in Perth on November 11, 2023. Sheriff Jennifer Bain KC delivered the verdict at Perth Sheriff Court after hearing two days of evidence. While the Sheriff cleared PC Kelly, she expressed reservations about his testimony, describing it as “incredible and unreliable” in several aspects. The officer was accused of touching a woman inappropriately on the dancefloor and later, on the same night, of slapping and grabbing a man’s buttocks. The female complainant testified in February, recounting how she felt “completely violated” and short of breath after the alleged assault. PC Kelly vehemently denied both allegations during his trial, insisting that such behavior was contrary to his nature, particularly as a serving police officer, and stated his sexual orientation as a factor in his defence. Sheriff Expresses Concerns Sheriff Bain KC, while acknowledging the seriousness of the accusations and expressing her doubts about PC Kelly’s testimony, stated that the prosecution hadn’t conclusively proven his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. She stressed that her concerns about the officer’s evidence were significant, especially given his professional role within the community. “It is concerning given your role as a police officer”, the sheriff remarked directly to PC Kelly. The officer had claimed during his trial that he was “probably the most sober” person at the Loft nightclub that evening, having consumed only four or five vodkas due to driving responsibilities the next day. He recalled a confrontation with the female complainant, where she accused him of touching her inappropriately, and said he’d been confused and responded by telling her to calm down. He apologised to the court for this reaction. CCTV Footage Examined The court reviewed CCTV footage from inside the busy nightclub, as well as from outside the premises, where PC Kelly was seen talking to a member of the door staff. PC Kelly explained he was protesting his innocence to the staff member, reiterating his position as a police officer and emphasizing his sexual orientation. He maintained the footage also demonstrated he wasn’t near the female complainant at the time of the alleged incident. The officer admitted to sending a text message to a friend after the accusations surfaced, asking “Have I f***ed my job?” He expressed anxiety about the potential impact of false accusations on his career and life, referencing colleagues who had lost their jobs following allegations alone. He acknowledged he might have handled the initial interaction better but stood firm in his denial of the charges, reinforcing the impact the accusations had on him. The prosecution, led by Stuart Hamilton, highlighted the seeming improbability of two separate sexual assault allegations being levelled against the same person on the same night in the same place. However, the sheriff’s verdict of not proven ultimately led to PC Kelly’s acquittal, and he was free to leave the court.
Local Court Cases Highlight Crime and Consequences Across Tayside and Fife
A series of recent court cases across Tayside and Fife have shone a light on a range of offenses, from domestic violence to armed robbery, and the consequences faced by those involved. These incidents serve as a reminder of the impact of crime on local communities and the importance of upholding the law. Christmas Day Assault in Angus A Letham man faced Forfar Sheriff Court after a drunken Christmas Day assault on his partner. The incident, which took place in a taxi, left the victim with a bloodied nose. The perpetrator, a first-time offender, expressed remorse for his actions and was fined £520 by Sheriff Derek Reekie. This unfortunate event underscores the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption and its potential to fuel domestic violence. Kirkton Riot Charges Filed Eleven individuals have been charged in connection with the 2022 Halloween riot in Kirkton, Dundee. The charges include breach of the peace and the use of a makeshift device to launch fireworks at police officers. This incident, which disrupted the community and put public safety at risk, is finally seeing those allegedly involved brought to account. Drug-Driving Ban for Perth Motorist A Perth kitchen porter was disqualified from driving for three years after being caught behind the wheel with excess THC in his system. The driver claimed he had unknowingly consumed cannabis edibles at a party the previous night. Sheriff Jennifer Bain KC, presiding over the case at Perth Sheriff Court, imposed a £700 fine in addition to the driving ban. This case serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of being aware of the potential lingering effects of substances, even if consumed unintentionally. Lidl Employee’s Virus Ordeal A Dundee woman has been prosecuted for biting a Lidl employee after being asked to leave the South Ward Road store due to suspicious behavior. The victim endured months of anxiety and testing for blood-borne viruses following the attack. This incident highlights the risks faced by retail workers and the need for greater protections against violence and aggression. Repeat Offender Targets Falkirk Post Office A career criminal with a history of armed robberies targeting post offices has been sentenced to nearly five years in prison for another such offense. The man, who used a realistic-looking airsoft gun in the robbery of a Falkirk sub-Post Office, blamed housing officials for placing him in a flat overlooking the business. Judge Lord Harrower, sentencing at the High Court in Stirling, dismissed the offender’s attempts to shift responsibility and imposed a four-year, eight-month sentence with a three-year extended sentence for public protection. This case raises questions about the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs and the challenges of reintegrating repeat offenders into society. Perth Arsonist Avoids Jail Time A Perth man responsible for two fires that caused significant damage to city centre tenements avoided a prison sentence. The fires, started in the man’s own furniture, resulted in the evacuation of residents and over £73,000 in property damage. While the specific sentence details were not available in this summary, the case raises concerns about the appropriate penalties for arson and the potential for future risk to the community. Ten-Year Sentence for Fife Child Abuser A Fife man has been jailed for ten years for a series of sexual offenses against two young girls. The abuse, which occurred over 13 years, included attempted rape and the use of substances to incapacitate a victim. Judge Thomas Welsh KC, at the High Court in Edinburgh, emphasized the horrific nature of the crimes and the lasting psychological trauma inflicted on the victims. A further three years of supervised release and a lifetime placement on the sex offenders register were imposed to protect the public. This sentencing sends a strong message that child abuse will not be tolerated and that offenders will face severe consequences for their actions. These recent cases demonstrate the diverse nature of crime within our local communities and the dedication of law enforcement and the courts to hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
Tayside, Fife, and Stirling Embrace April Fools’ Day with Hilarious Pranks
Residents of Tayside, Fife, and Stirling enjoyed a day of lighthearted trickery as individuals, businesses, and even local councillors joined in the annual April Fools’ Day tradition. Social media was abuzz with playful hoaxes designed to bring a smile to the faces of locals. From Groceries to Gowfers: A Roundup of the Region’s Best Gags In Fife, Councillor David Barratt sparked a flurry of excitement with a fabricated email suggesting that Waitrose, the upscale English supermarket chain, was planning to take over the vacant Dobbies site in Dalgety Bay. While many initially fell for the well-crafted ruse, Councillor Barratt humorously clarified his loyalty to Aldi, much to the amusement of local residents. Carnoustie Panmure FC, the beloved junior football club affectionately known as “The Gowfers,” presented a more ambitious, albeit equally fictitious, vision for the future: a grand, 7,500-seat stadium. While this dream remains beyond the current reach of the club, it generated lively banter amongst fans on social media and highlighted the enduring community spirit surrounding the team. The club assured supporters that improvements to their current home at Laing Park are in the pipeline. Raith Rovers FC also tapped into the football fervor, promoting a new dating app promising connections with fellow supporters and even players. The link, however, led fans not to romance but to a rivalrous news article about a disastrous Dunfermline Athletic debut, adding an extra layer of amusement to the prank. The popular St Andrews eatery, The Cheesy Toast Shack, fresh from its recent handling of a controversial TripAdvisor review, announced a radical menu change. In a playful jab at customer queues, the establishment proposed swapping its signature toasted sandwiches for cold versions, featuring ingredients like buffalo chicken, macaroni, and cheese. The tongue-in-cheek post sparked laughter and highlighted the takeaway’s engaging social media presence. Strathmore Woollen Co, based in Forfar, touted a novel invention: glow-in-the-dark tartan. The fabric, designed for midnight Highland games or those prone to losing their scarves in dimly lit settings, captured the imagination of many and showcased the company’s creative spirit. Not to be outdone, the charity Dundee Bairns revived the classic “tartan paint” prank, inviting locals to inquire about a large, incoming shipment of the non-existent product. Perth’s Rodney Pavilion, recently acquired by former St Johnstone player Kevin Cuthbert, was also the subject of an April Fools’ jest. Cuthbert humorously announced plans for luxury apartments named after characters from the iconic sitcom “Only Fools and Horses.” This nod to a beloved show resonated with Perth residents and underscored the community’s anticipation for the Pavilion’s transformation. Traffic Scotland, meanwhile, envisioned a dedicated “Moo Bridge” (M00) across the Firth of Forth, designed exclusively for livestock and farm vehicles. The elaborate concept featured interactive feeding stations and a “cattle grid” design, amusing readers with its blend of practicality and absurdity. Finally, Carse of Gowrie councillor Angus Forbes put a political spin on the day, fabricating a story about Donald Trump renaming the Firth of Tay to the “Firth of America” and pledging to construct a magnificent bridge across it. The “fake news” post drew chuckles from locals. Stirling High School students experienced a moment of panic when the school posted about the leaving age being raised to 18. The prank suggested that even students born before March 31, 2008, would be required to return for an extra year of studies. From playful jabs at local businesses to grand infrastructure fantasies, the day’s pranks provided a welcome dose of humor and community spirit throughout the region.
Price Hikes Impact Tayside, Fife, and Stirling Residents
Today marks a turning point for household budgets across Tayside, Fife, and Stirling, as a wave of price increases takes effect on essential services. From council tax bills and parking fees to public transport costs, residents are facing a steeper financial landscape. These local changes coincide with national price rises for utilities, broadband, mobile contracts, and vehicle tax, adding further pressure to already strained finances. This article breaks down the key changes and what they mean for communities in the region, with a particular focus on Perth and Kinross. Council Tax Rises Across the Board Council tax increases vary across the area. Dundee City Council implemented an 8% rise, equating to an annual increase of £119 for a Band D property. Perth and Kinross residents are shouldering a 9.5% increase, the highest ever in the region, adding an average of £11.11 per month to household bills. Fife Council approved an 8.2% increase, resulting in an extra £113 annually for Band D properties. Angus residents face an 11% rise, one of the steepest in Scotland, adding £144.84 per year to Band D bills. Stirling Council’s 8.8% hike translates to an annual increase between £87 for the lowest band and £320 for the highest. Parking Fees See Changes in Several Areas Parking charges in Dundee have increased across various locations, including city centre street parking, variable stay car parks, and several multi-storey facilities. The cost of monthly permits and tickets has also been affected. Similar changes are being rolled out in Perth and Kinross, impacting Perth city centre and surrounding towns like Crieff, Blairgowrie, Pitlochry, and Dunkeld. While Fife Council has held firm on parking charges for now, Angus Council continues its policy of free parking, having removed meters earlier this year. Stirling has seen increases in parking fees in its city centre, on-street locations, and in Dunblane, Callander, and Balmaha. For Perth residents, this means carefully considering parking options and potentially exploring alternative transportation for trips into the city centre or other affected areas. Public Transport Costs on the Rise Public transport users are also feeling the pinch. Xplore Dundee has implemented fare increases for the fourth year running. Short hop fares have risen by 15p to £2.55, and long hop fares have increased to £3.05, a rise of 15p. These fare changes could significantly impact those who rely on bus travel for daily commutes or regular errands within Dundee. While Midland Bluebird, operating in Stirling, hasn’t raised fares this month, they did implement increases in January 2025. ScotRail fares are up by 3.8% nationally, impacting commuter routes from Perth and Kinross. For example, a return ticket between Dundee and Perth now costs £5.60, a 20p increase. These rising transport costs highlight the need for affordable and accessible public transport options in Perth and Kinross and across the region. Overall Impact on Perth and Kinross The cumulative effect of these price hikes poses a considerable challenge for residents of Perth and Kinross. The increased cost of living necessitates careful budgeting and may encourage residents to explore cost-saving measures. Local businesses might also feel the impact, as consumers adjust their spending habits. The changes also underscore the importance of supporting local initiatives that promote affordability and accessibility for essential services, ensuring the well-being of the community. The local council and community groups can play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of these price rises by exploring initiatives such as expanding public transport routes, offering discounts for low-income households, and encouraging cycling and walking within Perth.
A94 Under Scrutiny: Increased Police Presence Following Cross Tay Link Road Opening
Following the inauguration of the Cross Tay Link Road and Destiny Bridge, Tayside Police have elevated the A94 to a priority route, increasing patrols and monitoring activities. This proactive measure comes in response to anticipated traffic pattern shifts and potential safety concerns on the A94, a road that traverses several communities, including Coupar Angus and Burrelton. Inspector Gordon Dickson of the Tayside Road Policing Unit foresees a potential rise in serious accidents on the A94. With the new Perth bypass offering a quicker route, drivers, particularly those travelling from the north, like Aberdeen, may opt to divert through Forfar and connect to the A94 to access the Cross Tay Link Road and ultimately travel towards Inverness. This altered traffic flow could put extra strain on the A94. Proactive Safety Measures The enhanced police presence and focus on the A94 aim to mitigate these risks. The move sees the A94 replace the A923 on the police’s priority route list. Regular monitoring by the local camera safety partnership will supplement the increased patrols. This comprehensive approach is designed to deter speeding and encourage safe driving practices, contributing to accident prevention along the route. Cross Tay Link Road’s Impact on Local Traffic The £150 million Cross Tay Link Road project, officially opened by First Minister John Swinney and Perth and Kinross Council leader Grant Laing, marks a significant development for Perth and Kinross. It offers a direct link between the A9, heading to Inverness, and the A94 just north of Scone, bypassing Perth city centre. While the new road is expected to alleviate congestion in Perth, improving air quality and travel times, the council recognizes the potential impact on surrounding roads. Traffic calming measures have been implemented in various villages along these routes. However, the community of Rait in the Carse of Gowrie is reportedly awaiting the installation of the anticipated 40mph speed limit signs, raising ongoing concerns about traffic safety in their area. The Cross Tay Link Road, boasting a 6km stretch of new carriageway known as New Kingsway and the iconic Destiny Bridge spanning the River Tay, stands as the largest infrastructure project ever undertaken in the region. It not only changes the landscape for drivers, but also offers 12km of dedicated paths for pedestrians, cyclists, and runners, promoting a balanced approach to transportation in Perth and Kinross. Local authorities remain committed to addressing the emerging traffic challenges and ensuring the safety of all road users during this transitional period. The heightened police presence on the A94 is a vital part of this ongoing effort, demonstrating a prioritization of road safety in the midst of major infrastructure changes.
Perth and Kinross Anticipates Wave of New Businesses in 2025
Perth and Kinross residents can look forward to a diverse range of new shopping and dining experiences in 2025, as several major retailers and restaurant chains have announced plans to establish or expand their presence in the region. From budget supermarkets to specialty wine bars, the upcoming developments promise to cater to a variety of tastes and needs, boosting local economies and creating new job opportunities. Grocery Giants Set Their Sights on Perthshire Aldi is renewing its efforts to open a larger store on Necessity Brae in Perth, aiming to relocate from its current Glasgow Road site. The new store, if approved by Perth and Kinross Council, will offer an enhanced shopping experience for Aldi customers. While the previous application faced legal challenges from Tesco, Aldi is optimistic about gaining approval this time around. Not to be outdone, Sainsbury’s has proposed a new store in Auchterarder, at The Feus, the site of a former haulage depot. The company believes the store will reduce the need for residents to travel outside the town for their shopping, offering convenience and supporting the local community. Public consultations for the project recently concluded, with the council’s decision pending. Meanwhile, Lidl has secured permission to build a second location in Perth, adding to its existing presence in the city. Located near McDiarmid Park, the new Lidl will expand choices for budget-conscious shoppers. The approval came despite initial concerns from planning officers about the land’s designation for housing, highlighting the council’s support for the project’s economic benefits. Dining Delights on the Horizon Food enthusiasts in Perth can anticipate the arrival of two new establishments. Greens, a popular grocery chain, is planning a flagship store on Crieff Road, incorporating a hot food takeaway. This development will also bring back the popular Pizza Hut brand to the city, after an absence of several years. The council’s decision on construction start dates is forthcoming. County Place is also set to welcome a new Tandoori restaurant, brought to you by the family behind the Shish Asian grill. The venture, occupying the former John Ferguson workwear store, promises authentic Asian cuisine and will further diversify Perth’s culinary scene. Beyond Perth: Developments Across the Region Scone residents can also look forward to a new Greens store, planned for the former Ian R Taylor furniture building on Perth Road. The proposal includes an additional retail unit and takeaway alongside the grocery store. This development is expected to create new retail opportunities and jobs in the village. The council is currently reviewing the application. In Kinross, progress continues on the Loch Leven Gateway project, a new retail park being developed at the old British Car Auction site. The multi-unit space, scheduled for completion in 2026, is anticipated to include a garden center, food retailer, and drive-thru coffee shop, enhancing the town’s retail offerings and complementing the existing High Street businesses. Loch Leven’s culinary scene is also getting a refresh with the potential transformation of the former Boathouse Restaurant. Proposals submitted last October detail plans for a seven-day-a-week bar and restaurant, complete with function space for private events. Awaiting the council’s determination, the project aims to revitalize a key location on the loch. Finally, Blairgowrie is preparing to welcome The Causerie, a new wine bar and bistro planned for the High Street location of a former cafe. Focusing on flavor-driven dishes and a curated wine selection, The Causerie plans to be open for lunch Wednesday through Saturday and for dinner Thursday through Saturday, adding to Blairgowrie’s evening economy. If planning permission is granted, the establishment will open in late May. These diverse business ventures mark a significant period of growth for the Perth and Kinross area, offering exciting prospects for local residents and strengthening the region’s economic landscape.
Perth Flood Gates Closed Due to High Tides
Residents of Perth are being advised that the flood gates at the South Inch are currently closed as a precautionary measure against high tides. Perth and Kinross Council initiated the closure on Monday afternoon to safeguard the area from potential flooding along the banks of the River Tay. The gates were closed at 3:30 pm on Monday and are expected to remain so until 9:30 am on Thursday, April 3rd. The closure coincides with a period of unusually high tides, a natural phenomenon influenced by the gravitational pull of the moon and sun, and exacerbated by weather patterns. While closures like this can disrupt routines for those who regularly use the South Inch for recreational activities, the Council’s action prioritizes the safety of residents and businesses near the river. Council Monitoring Situation Closely Council officials have confirmed they are closely monitoring the tide levels and weather forecasts. They will reopen the gates as soon as it is deemed safe to do so. “Due to high tides, the flood gates on the South Inch will be closed from today, 31 March at 3.30pm until 3 April, 9.30am. These tides will continue to be monitored, and the gates will be opened as soon as safe to do so.” This proactive approach underscores the Council’s commitment to mitigating flood risks in the region. Enjoying Perth Despite the Closure While the flood gate closure limits access to certain parts of the South Inch, residents and visitors can still enjoy many of Perth’s other attractions. The picturesque North Inch remains open for recreational activities, offering ample green space and stunning views across the River Tay. Perth’s vibrant city centre, with its diverse shops, cafes, and restaurants, is also readily accessible and unaffected by the closure. Furthermore, the forecast for this week predicts warm and sunny weather, with temperatures reaching a balmy 17°C. This provides an excellent opportunity to explore other outdoor spaces in and around Perth, such as Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park or the scenic paths along the River Almond. Even with the South Inch partially inaccessible, the favorable weather encourages exploring the multitude of other natural beauties Perthshire has to offer. Perth Museum and Art Gallery, the Black Watch Castle and Museum, and Scone Palace are excellent indoor alternatives for those seeking cultural experiences. Local businesses, including cafes, restaurants, shops and entertainment venues, continue to operate as usual, offering plenty of options for entertainment and leisure during the flood gate closure. The Council reminds everyone to heed posted warnings and closures for public safety. Updates on the flood gate status will be available through their official website and social media channels. Despite the temporary inconvenience, this situation highlights the importance of Perth’s robust flood defenses and the council’s commitment to community safety.
Captured in Dunkeld: Sex Offender Traced After 18-Day Search
A Dutch national who disappeared from Dunkeld more than two weeks ago, prompting a widespread search by authorities, has been apprehended. The individual, identified as 47-year-old Coen Bust, from Edinburgh, was last observed disembarking a train at Dunkeld and Birnam station on March 13th. His disappearance sparked concerns within the local community and triggered multiple appeals for information from Police Scotland. It later came to light that Bust, who was due to be sentenced in court on the same day he vanished, is a registered sex offender. This revelation raised serious questions about the initial missing person appeals issued by police, which omitted this crucial detail. Unveiling the Offender’s Elusive Path Bust’s apprehension unfolded near Birnam Glen on Monday around 1pm, concluding an intensive 18-day search that involved significant police resources, including dog units. Prior to his capture, witnesses reported observing a substantial police presence near the Birnam Hotel earlier on Monday morning. The circumstances surrounding Bust’s evasion of authorities for over two weeks and his eventual discovery in the vicinity of Dunkeld remain under investigation. The charges against Bust stem from an online operation targeting child sexual exploitation. He had previously pled guilty on January 30th to sending inappropriate communications to an individual he believed to be a 14-year-old girl, who was in actuality an undercover police officer. This offense led to his placement on the sex offenders register. His failure to appear for sentencing on March 13th added another layer to the ongoing investigation. Community Impact and Reassurance The news of a convicted sex offender being at large in the area understandably caused anxiety among residents of Dunkeld and the wider Perth and Kinross community. Many expressed their concerns over public safety. During the search, police had requested assistance from the public, urging anyone with private CCTV or dashcam recordings to review their footage for potential sightings of Bust. While the police have confirmed his capture and expressed gratitude to those who shared the appeals, the incident has brought the issue of public safety into sharp focus for local communities. Discussions are likely to continue regarding how information about high-risk missing persons is communicated during investigations. This incident serves as a reminder for communities in Perth and Kinross to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police. Local authorities and community groups are likely to be reviewing safety protocols and communications strategies in the wake of this incident. Residents are encouraged to engage in community safety initiatives and familiarize themselves with resources available to support vulnerable individuals. Continued collaboration between police, local organizations, and residents will be essential to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of everyone in Perth and Kinross.
Perth Man Avoids Jail Time Despite Causing Two City Centre Tenement Fires
A Perth man has avoided imprisonment despite pleading guilty to culpably and recklessly starting two fires in city centre tenements in 2019. 55-year-old Bryan Soutar’s actions resulted in over £73,000 worth of damage and forced residents to evacuate their smoke-filled homes. The incidents, occurring in May and November of 2019, took place at Soutar’s assisted living flat on Market Street and later at St Johnstoun’s Buildings on Charles Street. Near Tragedy Averted by Swift Response of Fire Crews The court heard how Soutar’s actions could have resulted in a catastrophic loss of life if not for the rapid response of Perth’s fire crews. The first fire, in May, saw three fire crews attending the Market Street tenement block early in the morning. Eight flats in the building, managed by Blackwood Homes and Care, a charity that provides accommodation for those with disabilities and other support needs, required evacuation as the blaze took hold. Firefighters, equipped with breathing apparatus and hose reels, worked quickly to contain and extinguish the fire. The second incident, at the four-storey St Johnstoun’s Buildings in November, again saw the building filled with smoke, forcing residents to flee their homes. Witnesses reported hearing Soutar in his ground floor flat just before fire alarms activated. In both instances, Soutar was no longer present at the scene when emergency services arrived. Soutar’s Tenancy Surprisingly Remains Available Despite Significant Costs Solicitor Lysney Barber, representing Soutar, informed the court that his client’s tenancy, surprisingly, remains available to him despite the significant financial burden his actions placed on Perth and Kinross Council. She emphasized Soutar’s comprehension of the severity of his actions and the potential for a drastically different outcome. Ms. Barber highlighted that Soutar had been residing at his Perth address for 18 months without any issues prior to these events. She acknowledged the substantial cost of repairs, conceding Soutar’s inability to contribute financially, and requested the court to consider a community-based sentence as an alternative to imprisonment. Sheriff Opts for Supervision Over Jail Time Addressing Soutar, Sheriff Jennifer Bain KC stated that his offences met the requirements for a prison sentence. She acknowledged his acceptance of responsibility and recognition of the potential for dire consequences if not for the prompt action of emergency responders. Sheriff Bain noted Soutar’s period of stability at his new residence and, taking all factors into consideration, deemed a community payback order, with supervision, a more appropriate measure in this specific case. Soutar has been placed under supervision for 18 months. This sentence, avoiding jail time, underscores the sheriff’s emphasis on rehabilitation and Soutar’s evident remorse for the disruption and financial burden caused to Perth residents and the council.
Fortingall Fire: Community Raises Over £5,000 for Pensioner After Devastating Blaze
The close-knit community of Fortingall and surrounding areas in Perthshire have rallied together to support 76-year-old Marion Drummond, whose home of 67 years was tragically destroyed in a fire on March 21st. The blaze, which began around 10:30 am, ripped through four thatched cottages in the village, including Ms. Drummond’s beloved Kirkton Cottage, and significantly damaged a fifth property. At the peak of the incident, twelve fire crews battled the flames, working tirelessly throughout the night to bring the situation under control. Heartbreak and Hope: A Community’s Compassion Ms. Drummond, who moved into Kirkton Cottage with her parents at the age of seven, expressed her devastation at the loss of her home and all her possessions. The fire left her heartbroken, but in the face of such a devastating event, the community’s response has been a beacon of hope. A fundraising campaign, spearheaded by local joiner Stuart McLean, partner of Ms. Drummond’s daughter Karen, was quickly established to provide immediate financial assistance. The initial goal of £5,000 was swiftly surpassed, with donations exceeding £5,042 at the time of this report. This outpouring of support from both the local community and individuals further afield demonstrates the profound impact this incident has had and highlights the spirit of solidarity within Perthshire. While the house itself was covered by insurance, the contents were not, due to increasing difficulty in obtaining coverage for thatched properties. Mr. McLean emphasized the importance of this fundraising effort, stating that Marion needs help now, not months down the line when insurance claims are finally processed. Rebuilding More Than Just Buildings The funds raised will go directly to Ms. Drummond, providing her with the means to begin rebuilding her life and securing essential items lost in the fire. Mr. McLean expressed his gratitude for the remarkable generosity of people in the region, adding, “They really do look after their own.” This sentiment underscores the strength and resilience of the Fortingall community, showcasing how, even amidst tragedy, they come together to support those in need. The fire, though a terrible blow to the residents affected, has served as a catalyst for neighbours and friends to connect and bolster each other during a challenging time. This display of empathy and practicality reflects the strong community ties within Perthshire and offers a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity with collaborative effort. Ms. Drummond, amidst her heartbreak, shared that finding her mother’s eternity ring among the debris, though blackened, gave her a much needed boost. The ring’s survival symbolizes the enduring memories and irreplaceable sentimental value that remain, even after the devastating loss of material possessions. The journey ahead for Ms. Drummond and the other families affected by the Fortingall fire will undoubtedly be lengthy and arduous. Yet, with the generous support of the community and the unwavering compassion of individuals like Mr. McLean, the process of rebuilding is given a strong and heartfelt foundation.