Perthshire Courtroom Chronicles: Drink Driving, Boat Theft, and Stalking Cases
Several recent cases at Perth Sheriff Court have highlighted a range of offences impacting the local community, from drink driving incidents linked to a camping trip and a shopping excursion, to boat theft and stalking. Drink Driving Incidents A Fife Council employee, Lewis Allen, 28, of Lochgelly, faced sentencing for driving under the influence of alcohol. Allen pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol (91mics/22) on the A9 near the Inveralmond roundabout on February 22nd. His lawyer explained Allen had been camping in Perthshire when adverse weather prompted his “stupid” decision to drive home while intoxicated. Sheriff David Hall imposed a £640 fine and a 16-month driving ban. In a separate incident, Suzanne Bond, 58, of Braco, was also sentenced for drink driving. Two concerned individuals called emergency services after witnessing her erratic driving en route to B&M in Crieff on February 25th. Police found her vehicle with its front wheels askew upon arrival. Bond’s solicitor noted she had little memory of the incident, acknowledged the high alcohol reading (104mics/22), and emphasized this served as a “wake-up call,” leading to her abstaining from alcohol since. Sheriff Hall sentenced Bond to a year of supervision, 150 hours of unpaid work, and a 16-month driving ban. Boat Theft and Repayment DJ Martin Dickson returned to court regarding the theft of a fishing boat valued at £22,000 from Forth Cruising Club in Limekilns in June 2021. Dickson, who infamously launched a crowdfunding campaign shortly after his initial court appearance, demonstrated he had access to thousands of pounds to begin compensating the boat’s owner. The court had previously stipulated he needed to secure £10,000 in restitution. This development marked a turning point in the case, offering potential resolution for the victim. Contraband in Prison and Previous Offences Martin Reilly, 44, originally of Inverkeithing, was sentenced to five months in prison for possessing a prohibited SIM card within HMP Perth on July 9th, 2022. This sentence will run concurrently with a previous 21-month sentence Reilly received in March for separate offences. His solicitor cited Reilly’s PTSD as a contributing factor. It was mentioned that Reilly had previously served a four-and-a-half year sentence for a dangerous driving incident in Kinross where he struck a pedestrian twice with his vehicle, causing significant injury. Stalking Conviction Following a trial at Perth Sheriff Court, 76-year-old former company director Michael Paton was convicted of stalking a woman in Perth. Paton denied the accusation, claiming his actions were merely “overly enthusiastic.” Sheriff Hall, however, underscored the principle of consent, stating “no means no,” and found Paton guilty. This verdict delivered a strong message against unwanted pursuits and harassment within the local community.
Craft Diner Expansion Approved: Dunkeld Burger Shack Grows, Eyes Perth Location
Popular Dunkeld eatery, Craft Diner, is set for expansion after Perth and Kinross Council’s planning and placemaking committee granted approval for a larger takeaway unit. Chef and owner Orkun Cevik shared the news, hinting at potential plans to bring his sought-after burgers to Perth in the near future. The approved plans will significantly enlarge the current Atholl Street car park location, transforming the compact 10ft by 8ft premises into a more spacious 10ft by 30ft unit. The expansion will facilitate a larger cooking area, an extended decking for customers, additional covered seating, and space for several tables. Cevik stated that the Dunkeld expansion will accommodate the growing customer base, currently serving around 180 people daily, and represents the maximum planned growth for this location. Addressing Controversy and Community Support The expansion proposal wasn’t without its challenges, receiving 12 objections alongside 66 letters of support. Concerns raised by objectors, including Chris Claydon, focused on waste management and a perceived rat infestation connected to the business. Claydon also referenced an alleged “online hate campaign” launched by Cevik against critics in December of the previous year, citing an Instagram post where the chef expressed frustration with individuals he felt were claiming ownership of the town. Cevik refuted these claims, emphasizing that environmental health officers had conducted multiple unannounced inspections and found no issues. He attributed the rat presence to a longstanding issue in the area, predating his business, asserting, “The rats have been there for maybe 1,000 years. I didn’t create it. My business didn’t create it. They were already there.” A Cyclist-Friendly Haven and a Chef’s Journey Strong community support for the Craft Diner was evident in statements from figures like Mike Stead of Highland Perthshire Cycling. Stead highlighted the diner’s unique role in catering to cyclists, providing an all-weather, outdoor dining experience where cyclists can keep an eye on their bikes and relax without the constraint of bringing muddy attire indoors. This, he noted, contributed significantly to Dunkeld’s visitor economy. Cevik’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2021, following job loss due to the pandemic. He launched Craft Diner in a repurposed shipping container near Dunkeld and Birnam Railway Station, later relocating to the Atholl Street car park in 2023. The chef, formerly of Dunkeld House Hotel, has gained recognition for his direct communication style, publicly addressing issues such as racist abuse directed at his business and responding to negative online reviews. Looking Ahead to Perth The Craft Diner’s success in Dunkeld has fueled Cevik’s ambition to expand his unique burger offerings. He informed the council committee of his intention to seek a Perth location for a new venture “very soon,” suggesting that Perth residents may soon have the opportunity to enjoy the Craft Diner experience closer to home. While details remain under wraps, this announcement signals a potential culinary development for the Fair City, building upon the diner’s existing popularity in Highland Perthshire. This expansion not only reflects the Craft Diner’s growing success but also underlines the vital role of local businesses in enhancing the region’s appeal, particularly for visitors exploring popular destinations such as the nearby Birks of Aberfeldy and the scenic routes around Loch Tay. The prospect of a Perth location adds to the anticipation, suggesting a new chapter for both the Craft Diner and the Fair City’s food scene.
Serial Golf Thief Jailed After Spree Targeting Perthshire Clubs
A prolific thief with a history of targeting golf courses has been sentenced to prison following a series of thefts across central Scotland, including incidents in Perth and Kinross. 62-year-old Eric Dowds admitted to stealing golf clubs, equipment, and apparel worth almost £42,000 during break-ins at various golf clubs and pro shops. Dowds’ crime spree extended from October 26, 2023, to October 16, 2024, impacting Kinross Golf Club, along with establishments in Fauldhouse, Uphall (West Lothian), and Dullatur Golf Club near Cumbernauld. He often operated with an accomplice, who remains unidentified by authorities. Unsuccessful Perthshire Heist Adds to Charges In addition to the successful thefts, Dowds also pleaded guilty to an attempted theft at Noah’s Ark Golf Centre in Perth on October 25, 2023. During this incident, Dowds and an accomplice tried to pry open a metal roller blind, causing £2,000 worth of damage but ultimately failing to gain entry. This unsuccessful attempt further contributed to the charges against him. Caught on Camera and DNA Evidence Seals Fate Security footage from multiple locations captured Dowds, sometimes masked with a balaclava, moving through the targeted premises and either carrying stolen items or passing them through windows to a waiting accomplice. Crucially, DNA evidence linked Dowds to at least two of the break-ins, strengthening the case against him. Despite the extensive investigation, none of the pilfered golf equipment has been recovered. Dowds’ defense solicitor, Ian McClelland, attributed his client’s actions to “difficulties at home” and stated that Dowds, a roofer from Harthill, had been influenced into participating in the crimes. However, Sheriff Court Judge X was unmoved and handed down a 33-month prison sentence, reflecting the severity of the offenses and Dowds’ prior record of ten convictions for theft by housebreaking. This is not Dowd’s first encounter with the legal system concerning golf equipment theft. In 2022, he faced a not proven verdict for allegedly stealing £13,000 worth of Titleist clubs from Gleneagles. He previously served time for a break-in at commercial premises in Edinburgh in 2011, highlighting a pattern of criminal behavior. This case has resonated with the local golfing community, sparking discussions about security measures at area golf clubs. Several clubs have announced plans to review and enhance their existing security protocols, potentially including upgrades to alarm systems, surveillance cameras, and increased security patrols, to deter future incidents. The thefts serve as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by local businesses and recreational facilities in protecting their assets.
Perth Paramedics Featured in BBC Scotland Documentary Highlighting Drug Overdose Challenges
A gripping new BBC Scotland documentary, “Paramedics on Scene,” offers viewers an intimate look into the demanding work of local ambulance crews. The latest episode, filmed in Perth, follows paramedic Keara Bacon and technician Ashleigh Smith as they respond to a life-threatening drug overdose in a Fair City car park. The episode showcases the complex and often heartbreaking reality faced by paramedics dealing with the prevalent issue of drug overdoses, particularly concerning street Valium. When Keara and Ashleigh arrive at the scene, they find an unconscious man, suspected of overdosing on this dangerous substance. The documentary captures the urgency of the situation as the paramedics quickly assess the man’s condition and administer medication to counteract the effects of the overdose. Fighting Against the Tide: Perth and Dundee’s Overdose Crisis The documentary doesn’t shy away from the difficult truth about the prevalence of drug overdoses in Perth and Dundee. Keara highlights the complexities of these calls, explaining how multiple factors contribute to each individual case. She emphasizes that it’s not just about treating the immediate medical emergency, but understanding the underlying circumstances that lead to these incidents. Keara acknowledges the staggering drug death rates in Scotland, referencing local and national news reports and highlighting initiatives like the Naloxone distribution training program being implemented within the Scottish Ambulance Service. Naloxone is a fast-acting medication that can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, giving individuals a chance to receive further medical care. The program underscores the critical role paramedics play in tackling this public health crisis. Inside the Ambulance: A Perthshire Perspective The documentary provides a unique perspective on the day-to-day pressures and triumphs of our local paramedics. While the episode focuses on the harrowing moments of the overdose response, it also captures lighter moments, revealing the human side of these dedicated professionals. The episode also shows Keara and Ashleigh responding to a separate incident involving two men in the River Tay, emphasizing the range of challenges they face in their line of duty. The uncertainty surrounding the overdose victim’s fate after he’s transported to A&E underscores the ongoing fight against Scotland’s drug problem. The episode emphasizes that every second counts in these emergencies and showcases the quick thinking and decisive action required by paramedics in the field. It also demonstrates the teamwork and communication vital to ensuring patient safety. Keara and Ashleigh reflected on their experience of being part of the documentary, saying, ‘Being filmed was incredibly exciting and memorable. It’s not often that people get to see what we do beyond the flashing lights and sirens… we’re just ordinary people doing our best to help others – often showing up in someone’s darkest hour, trying to bring calm, care, and sometimes a bit of humour.’ Their words highlight the vital, yet often unseen, service paramedics provide to the Perth and Kinross community. The episode featuring Keara and Ashleigh offers a window into the world of emergency medical response and sheds light on the urgent need for continued efforts to address the underlying issues contributing to drug overdoses in our community and across Scotland. The courage and dedication of these front-line workers serve as an inspiration and a reminder of the importance of compassion and support for those struggling with addiction.
Uncertainty Surrounds Perth City Centre Hotel Project After Kinloch Rannoch Venue Enters Administration
The future of a proposed boutique hotel planned for Perth city centre’s former council offices at 1-5 High Street is now uncertain following the financial collapse of a related venture in Kinloch Rannoch. The Dunalastair Hotel Suites, a five-star establishment and part of the Rogue City Hotel Group, recently entered administration with debts exceeding £4 million. This has triggered concerns about the viability of The Capital, a similar boutique hotel project also under the Rogue City Hotel Group umbrella, slated for the historic High Street building. Adding to the complexity, the Rogue City Hotel Group itself is reportedly being dissolved. This information came from a representative answering calls for various businesses operating from the group’s registered address, who stated that the group “doesn’t exist” and is “in the process of being closed.” She emphasized that no hotels currently operate under the Rogue City brand. Perth Development in Limbo The 1-5 High Street location has remained vacant since 2008, and the proposed hotel project aimed to revitalize this prominent city centre landmark. Perth and Kinross Council initially faced criticism for its plan to sell the building for a nominal £1 fee but later entered into a development lease with Henley Homes, granting the developer the option to purchase upon completion of the conversion. However, with Henley Homes now in liquidation, the project’s progression has been further complicated. A separate entity, Lock Terrace Ltd, subsequently submitted a planning application to transform the 1870s structure into a 74-room luxury hotel. Local Impact and Next Steps This news casts a shadow over the future of 1-5 High Street and its potential contribution to Perth’s economy and tourism sector. The council anticipates a decision on the planning application later this year. Although the project was previously promoted on the Rogue City Hotel Group website, the spokesperson clarified that individual hotels within the group’s portfolio are managed by separate companies. She directed inquiries regarding The Capital project to Lock Terrace Ltd, but multiple attempts to contact the company have yielded no response. The unanswered questions leave Perth residents and businesses wondering about the long-term plans for this significant city centre property and whether the vision for a vibrant boutique hotel will ever come to fruition. The situation underscores the challenges involved in complex development projects and highlights the impact of unforeseen circumstances on local economic development initiatives. The delay also leaves a gap in Perth’s ongoing city centre regeneration efforts. While other projects, such as the redevelopment of the Perth Theatre and the creation of the Mill Street Plaza, have contributed to a renewed sense of vibrancy, the stalled hotel project raises questions about the overall pace and direction of these efforts. The former council offices occupy a prime location, and their continued vacancy represents a missed opportunity to enhance the city’s appeal to visitors and boost local businesses. Residents are eager to see progress on this site and are hoping for a resolution that will contribute positively to the city centre’s future.
Kinross-shire Road Ban for Ex-Footballer After Serious Motorcycle Collision
A Kinross-shire road has seen a former professional footballer banned from driving after causing a crash that left a motorcyclist with serious injuries. Paul McQuade, who previously played striker for St Mirren and Cowdenbeath, was found guilty of careless driving following a trial at Perth Sheriff Court. He received an 18-month driving ban and a £900 fine. The incident occurred on the B996 near Kinross, where McQuade, now working as a civil engineer, was driving an Audi A6. He had been transporting a teenager home after football practice when the collision happened. According to court testimony, McQuade pulled out from a junction into the path of 20-year-old motorcyclist Archie Collyer, misjudging the distance between his vehicle and the approaching Yamaha 125. Devastating Injuries and a Long Recovery The impact of the collision resulted in severe injuries for Mr. Collyer, including fractures to his pelvis, leg, and arm. These injuries necessitated surgical intervention and the insertion of metal plates to aid in his recovery. The young motorcyclist’s life was significantly disrupted, requiring an eight-day hospital stay before he even regained consciousness, highlighting the severity of the incident. Conflicting Accounts of the Collision During the trial, McQuade testified that he believed he had adequately assessed the situation before pulling out onto the B996. He claimed he had observed Mr. Collyer’s motorcycle approaching on the straight road, estimating the distance at around 400 yards. Despite this assessment, the collision occurred. Mr. Collyer himself stated that he had activated his high beam and attempted to swerve to avoid McQuade’s vehicle, but unfortunately, the impact was unavoidable. The biker detailed the harrowing moments before impact, recalling his instinct to shield his face to protect his neck. He has a long road to recovery ahead of him, facing extensive rehabilitation to regain full mobility. The incident raises concerns about road safety, particularly on rural routes like the B996, and serves as a reminder of the importance of careful observation and cautious driving at junctions. The sentencing emphasizes the serious consequences that can result from even momentary lapses in concentration while behind the wheel. This case will undoubtedly resonate with the Perth and Kinross community, urging greater vigilance on local roads. For residents familiar with the B996, known for its long stretches and potentially challenging visibility, especially in darker conditions, the details of the crash are likely to hit particularly close to home. The outcome of the trial reflects the Sheriff’s view that McQuade’s actions constituted a significant misjudgment with lasting consequences for the victim. The driving ban imposed on McQuade not only penalizes him directly but also impacts his ability to support others, as noted by his solicitor, David Holmes. The former footballer’s history in local clubs like St Mirren, Forfar, East Fife, and various East of Scotland League teams brings a local dimension to the story, adding to its impact within the Perth and Kinross community.
Tragic Loss on A827: East Lothian Motorcyclist Remembered
The Perth and Kinross community extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Colin Campbell, a 67-year-old motorcyclist from Newton, East Lothian, who tragically lost his life in a road accident on the A827. The incident occurred on Friday evening near Lawers, approximately six miles east of Killin, a route familiar to many locals and visitors enjoying the scenic beauty of Highland Perthshire. Mr. Campbell was riding his black Ducati M1200 motorcycle when the accident took place. Emergency services responded promptly, but sadly, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The road was subsequently closed for seven hours to allow a thorough investigation by Police Scotland. This closure undoubtedly caused disruption for travellers in the area, highlighting the far-reaching impact of such incidents. Family’s Privacy Respected During Difficult Time The family has requested privacy as they grieve this devastating loss, and the community is asked to respect their wishes during this incredibly difficult time. The news of Mr. Campbell’s passing is a stark reminder of the importance of road safety, especially on scenic routes like the A827 which can present challenging driving conditions. The A827, which winds through the picturesque landscape of Highland Perthshire, connecting communities like Killin and Aberfeldy, is particularly popular with motorcyclists who are drawn to its challenging bends and stunning vistas. This incident has resonated with many in the area, underscoring the need for vigilance and caution on these roads. The thoughts of the local community are with Mr. Campbell’s loved ones as they come to terms with their loss. The tragic event has served as a sombre reminder for residents and visitors alike to exercise caution when using the A827. While the A827 offers breathtaking views and an exhilarating ride for motorcyclists, it is essential to prioritize road safety. Motorcyclists should wear appropriate safety gear, check weather conditions before travelling, and ensure their bike is well-maintained. Drivers of other vehicles should also stay alert when sharing the road with motorcyclists, being mindful of blind bends, changing weather conditions, and the need for safe overtaking distances. As the community processes this sad news, groups like the Perth and Kinross Road Safety Partnership are likely to use this opportunity to reinforce their commitment to promoting road safety awareness. The Partnership’s work includes initiatives to engage with all road users, particularly motorcyclists, to improve safety and reduce accident rates in the region. It also encourages greater collaboration with local communities and other stakeholders to make roads like the A827 safer for everyone.
New FlixBus Route to Connect Perth and Kinross with Glasgow Airport
Excellent news for residents of Perth and Kinross planning their next holiday or business trip: FlixBus is launching a new express bus service directly linking the region to Glasgow Airport. Starting this Thursday, April 17th, the new route will provide convenient and affordable travel options for those flying from Glasgow. This new route, part of FlixBus’s wider expansion across Scotland, is a significant development for Perth and Kinross, offering an alternative to driving or relying on often complex train connections. The service will include stops at the Broxden Park and Ride in Perth and the Castleview Park and Ride in Stirling, allowing easy access for residents across the region. Nine Daily Departures, Convenient Travel Times With nine daily departures from Aberdeen, stopping in Dundee and Perth before reaching Glasgow Airport’s terminal one, travellers will have ample choices to suit their flight schedules. The estimated travel time from Dundee is approximately two and a half hours, allowing passengers to plan their journey with accuracy. The full list of departure times from each location (Dundee, Perth’s Broxden Park and Ride, and Stirling’s Castleview Park and Ride) offers flexibility for travellers. The service will also benefit those arriving in Glasgow, with return journeys scheduled throughout the day and evening, including late-night options. This will be particularly helpful for those returning to Perth and Kinross after late flights, offering a more accessible and comfortable travel alternative. Affordable Fares for Airport Transfers FlixBus aims to provide competitive fares, with initial prices starting at £4.49 from Stirling and £7.49 from Dundee to Glasgow Airport. While prices may fluctuate based on demand and availability, the service presents a cost-effective option, especially when compared with airport parking charges or other modes of transport. This makes travelling to and from Glasgow Airport significantly more accessible for budget-conscious residents of Perth and Kinross. This new FlixBus route adds to the growing network of intercity bus services across Tayside, Fife, and Stirling, further enhancing connectivity within the region and beyond. It complements recent announcements by other transport providers, such as Stagecoach’s forthcoming St Andrews to Edinburgh Airport service and Ember’s electric bus route connecting Dunblane and Lochearnhead with Fort William and Edinburgh. These services collectively demonstrate a positive trend towards expanding and diversifying transport links across Scotland, making travel more accessible and convenient for residents and visitors alike. This improved accessibility to Glasgow Airport opens up a wider range of travel destinations for Perth and Kinross residents. It also contributes to boosting local tourism, as easier airport access can encourage more visitors to explore the beautiful scenery, historical sites, and vibrant cultural scene of Perthshire. Whether it’s for business, leisure, or visiting friends and family, this new FlixBus route offers a welcome addition to the region’s transport infrastructure.
A9 Overnight Closures Near Auchterarder to Cause 13-Mile Diversion
Motorists travelling north on the A9 should be prepared for overnight closures and a significant diversion near Auchterarder for seven days at the end of April. Road safety improvements, including relining, stud replacement, and enhanced reflectivity, will be undertaken by Amey between the Greenloaning off-slip and the Auchterarder south junction from Sunday, April 27th to Saturday, May 3rd. The closures will be in effect each night between 7:30 pm and 6:30 am, also impacting access to the A9 from Millihill Road in Greenloaning. The planned works represent a £250,000 investment in improving road safety along this vital Perthshire artery. Diversion Route Details Northbound traffic will be diverted off the A9 at Greenloaning. The designated detour route follows the A822, then joins the A823 towards Gleneagles, and finally returns to the A9 via the A824 at the Auchterarder south junction. This adds approximately 13 miles to the usual journey for those affected. Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead, especially if travelling during the closure periods. The extended route will likely add considerable time to journeys, especially during peak hours. Local residents in and around Auchterarder, Greenloaning, and Gleneagles should also anticipate potential increases in traffic volume on the diversion routes during these overnight periods. While the A822, A823 and A824 are all part of the same overall route it is important to denote each road individually to allow easy following of the diversion route on map services like Google Maps for example. Impact on Local Businesses and Residents Businesses along the affected stretch of the A9 may experience some disruption during the overnight closures. Amey, in a statement about the project, has acknowledged the potential inconvenience and highlighted that the works are weather dependent. Any cancellations or rescheduling due to unfavourable weather will be communicated. Local communities will be keen to see these important improvements completed swiftly and efficiently. Perth and Kinross Council are working with Amey to ensure the project is conducted with minimal interference for those who live and work along this important arterial route. Public transport services such as buses that use this route have been contacted to ensure that passengers are aware of potential delays caused by this diversion route. While these closures will cause some short-term disruption, the long-term benefits of improved road safety on the A9 are substantial for all road users. The upgraded road markings and enhanced visibility should contribute to a safer driving experience for both local residents and visitors passing through Perthshire. Regular commuters along this section of the A9 are encouraged to explore alternative transportation options like car sharing, Park & Ride schemes or public transport where feasible.
Crieff Barbershop with 52-Year Legacy Seeks New Chapter
After an impressive 52 years serving the Crieff community, the iconic Naismith’s barbershop, affectionately known as Johnny the Barbers, on East High Street is preparing for a change of ownership as its long-standing proprietor embarks on a well-deserved retirement. The news, which recently circulated through the town and online, has prompted a wave of warm wishes from Crieff residents, many of whom shared nostalgic stories and expressed gratitude for the barber’s decades of service. The shop has been a fixture in the town, witnessing generations grow up and offering a consistent, friendly space for a trim and a chat. It’s a testament to the owner’s dedication and the strong sense of community in Crieff. A Prime Opportunity for Aspiring Barbers or Entrepreneurs This presents a unique opportunity for someone to step into established shoes and continue the Naismith’s legacy. The 214sq ft unit is perfectly equipped for a seamless transition, with all the necessary barbershop fittings ready for immediate use. The sale includes the shop’s front area, a rear office space, a convenient kitchenette, and a WC, offering all the essentials for a functioning business. But the possibilities don’t end there. The prime location on East High Street, known for its bustling activity and foot traffic, also makes it an attractive prospect for those looking to establish a completely new enterprise. The space could be reimagined to suit a variety of businesses, capitalizing on the vibrant atmosphere of Crieff town centre. This could be anything from a small boutique or a specialty food store to a cozy cafe, adding another dimension to the local business landscape. More Than Just a Business, a Piece of Crieff History For over half a century, Naismith’s has been more than just a barbershop; it’s been a hub for local conversations, shared stories, and community connections. The owner’s commitment to his craft and his customers has created a lasting impact on Crieff, and the new owner will have the chance to build on this rich history. This is a rare opportunity to not just own a business, but to become a part of the fabric of the town, much like the nearby Drummond Castle Gardens are to the region’s cultural heritage or the annual Crieff Highland Gathering is to its vibrant community spirit. Lindsays is handling the marketing of the property, inviting offers over £25,000. This comes as another local business, G’s Bistro, also on East High Street, is listed for sale, marking a period of transition in the Crieff business community. While these changes are bittersweet, they underscore the constant evolution of our towns and open doors for new entrepreneurs and fresh ideas to flourish.