Taste Talk Expands Perthshire Presence with New Pitlochry Shop
Pitlochry is set to welcome a new addition to its thriving culinary scene as Taste Talk, the popular Dunkeld-based whisky and chocolate tasting experience, prepares to open a second location. Taste Talk, known for its innovative pairings of fine malt whiskies and artisan chocolates, has enjoyed significant success since opening its doors in Dunkeld in October 2021, quickly becoming a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. The company, spearheaded by Angus MacDougall and Gillian Marsh, received approval for a provisional premises licence from the Perth and Kinross licensing board this week, paving the way for their expansion into Pitlochry. The new shop, located at 23 Atholl Road, is expected to open in May 2025, creating 2.5 new jobs and further bolstering the local economy. This addition complements Pitlochry’s existing attractions like the Pitlochry Festival Theatre and the nearby Blair Athol Distillery, further enriching the town’s appeal. A Unique Tasting Experience Comes to Pitlochry Taste Talk’s unique offering, which they call “flings,” features a curated selection of high-quality single malt whiskies expertly paired with award-winning chocolate truffles crafted by the renowned Highland Chocolatier in Grandtully. This focus on local produce not only supports fellow Perthshire businesses but also provides customers with a truly authentic taste of the region. The combination of Scotland’s national drink with delectable, locally-sourced chocolates creates a sensory experience that has proven to be a winning formula in Dunkeld. While single malts are the stars of the show, Taste Talk recognizes that whisky isn’t to everyone’s taste. To cater to a broader audience and provide options for those with different preferences, the Pitlochry location will also offer a small selection of gins. These gins will similarly be matched with chocolates adding a sophisticated touch. ‘The only reason we have brought four gins on board,’ explained Gillian Marsh to the licensing board, ‘is because we do get the odd time where somebody – I can’t understand it myself – doesn’t like whisky so they ask for gin.’ This thoughtful addition ensures that everyone can find something to enjoy at Taste Talk, regardless of their spirit of choice. A Welcome Addition to Atholl Road The arrival of Taste Talk is expected to be a boon for Pitlochry’s Atholl Road, known for its bustling mix of shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions. With the promise of a unique and high-quality tasting experience, Taste Talk is poised to become a destination in its own right, attracting whisky enthusiasts, chocolate lovers, and anyone seeking a delightful and memorable experience in the heart of Perthshire. The new shop will undoubtedly contribute to the vibrancy of the town center, attracting both local residents and tourists exploring the area’s rich natural beauty and cultural heritage. The success of the Dunkeld shop suggests that Taste Talk is onto a winning formula, combining the appreciation for quality spirits with the indulgence of fine chocolates. This expansion into Pitlochry signals the company’s commitment to growth and its confidence in the appeal of its unique offering. By showcasing high-quality local products and providing a tailored tasting experience, Taste Talk continues to establish itself as a purveyor of fine Scottish flavors.
Half-Time Pints Now Flowing in McDiarmid Park Hospitality
Football fans enjoying the hospitality experience at St Johnstone’s McDiarmid Park can now savour a refreshing beverage during half-time. Perth and Kinross Council’s licensing board recently approved an amendment to the stadium’s alcohol license, lifting the previous restriction that prohibited alcohol sales from 30 minutes before kickoff until the final whistle. This change aligns McDiarmid Park with the standard practice of other Premiership football clubs throughout Scotland. The club, represented by CEO Fran Smith and licensing lawyer Stephen McGowan, emphasized the importance of offering a comprehensive match-day experience for their supporters. Mr. McGowan highlighted St Johnstone’s significant role within the Perth and Kinross community, describing the club as a “family” and a vital thread in the area’s “cultural fabric.” He argued the previous alcohol restriction was an anomaly, stating he wasn’t aware of any other Premiership clubs that enforced such a measure. Modernising the Match-Day Experience This shift in alcohol policy reflects a growing trend in football to provide a more complete and enjoyable experience for fans in hospitality areas. McDiarmid Park now offers a more relaxed and social atmosphere, enhancing the hospitality package for attendees. The club’s aim is to provide a space where fans can enjoy the match and socialise with fellow supporters in a comfortable setting, adding to the overall match-day excitement. The licensing amendment also allows the club shop to sell alcohol-related gifts, further diversifying their offerings for fans. The club has been very thorough in its training of staff to manage this change in policy, including security, management, and hospitality teams to prevent alcohol from being taken into the general seating areas. Responding to Community Needs St Johnstone has actively addressed concerns regarding responsible alcohol management. Mr. McGowan reassured the licensing board about the extensive training staff receive to ensure that no alcohol is taken out of the designated hospitality areas. This robust training is designed to prevent any breach of the broader stadium regulations which still prohibit alcohol in general seating areas. As a long-standing regulation, alcohol is still prohibited from being brought into the stadium grounds, and consumption remains restricted to designated hospitality sections. The club’s commitment to fan safety and responsible alcohol consumption is at the forefront of this policy update. This licensing board’s decision marks a positive step for St Johnstone FC, allowing them to further enhance the experience for hospitality guests at McDiarmid Park. By aligning their practices with other major clubs, they are providing a more appealing and contemporary match-day experience, all while maintaining a safe and controlled environment. The club hopes these changes will attract new supporters to their hospitality area and improve the atmosphere within McDiarmid Park, contributing to the club’s overall growth and development within the Perthshire community. The decision has been welcomed by the club and many of its fans, who see this as a welcome modernisation of the rules surrounding the match-day experience. This comes after club chairman Adam Webb voiced his concerns about the national alcohol ban in stadiums last year.
St Johnstone Star’s Partner Rachel Borthwick Shares Positive Cancer Update
Rachel Borthwick, partner of St Johnstone midfielder Graham Carey, has shared incredibly encouraging news regarding her ongoing battle with cancer. In a recent social media post, she revealed that following specialized treatment in Germany, she currently has no active cancer in her body. This positive development comes after a challenging period for Rachel, who was initially diagnosed with breast cancer in 2021. Since then, she has faced the disease’s recurrence on multiple occasions, most recently in December when scans revealed three new areas of concern in her back muscle. This led her to seek treatment abroad, and her determination to explore all available options has paid off with this latest optimistic update. A Journey of Courage and Hope Rachel’s journey has been one of remarkable resilience and determination. Her willingness to travel to Germany for a procedure known as microwave ablation, a minimally invasive technique used to target and destroy tumors with heat, demonstrates her proactive approach to her health. She described the procedure, performed on a small tumor on her right lung, as involving some pressure but being largely pain-free thanks to the effectiveness of the anaesthesia administered. She even lightheartedly recounted how the medical team commended her bravery, a compliment that she found amusing considering the level of anaesthesia used. While the recent MRI scan confirms the absence of active cancer, Rachel acknowledges that some tumors remain visible, albeit in a “sleeping” state. This underscores the ongoing nature of her health journey and the importance of continued monitoring and potential future treatments. Facing Ongoing Challenges and Seeking New Therapies Despite the positive news, Rachel also shared the continued difficulties she faces. She candidly discussed the impact of the targeted chemotherapy she has received, noting that its effect on her hair has been more pronounced than she had anticipated during previous intravenous chemotherapy. She explained the hair loss has negatively affected her mental health, adding another layer of complexity to her experience. Looking forward, Rachel plans to continue regular scans in Germany every three months and is currently investigating a dendritic cell vaccine in Munich to further bolster her immune system’s ability to combat the disease. This innovative therapy, focusing on training the immune system to specifically recognize and attack cancer cells, represents another step in her proactive approach to her health. Throughout her cancer journey, Rachel has been open about her experiences, using social media to share updates and connect with a supportive network. Her honest reflections on the emotional and physical challenges of living with cancer, coupled with her unwavering commitment to finding and pursuing treatment options, have resonated deeply with the community. Rachel expressed profound gratitude for the outpouring of support she has received, acknowledging the significant financial contributions that have made her pursuit of these therapies possible. She emphasized that the fight isn’t just for herself but for her children, reinforcing the powerful motivation behind her unwavering dedication to her health. As Rachel continues on this journey, her story serves as an inspiration, reminding us of the importance of hope, resilience, and community support in the face of adversity. Her connection to the local football community through Graham Carey’s role at St Johnstone further strengthens the bond between her experience and the people of Perth and Kinross, making her updates all the more relevant and impactful for a local audience.
Equipment Theft Hampers Search for Missing Auchterarder Spaniel
Volunteers from Missing Pets Perth and Kinross are expressing their frustration after a crucial piece of equipment was stolen during the ongoing search for a missing cocker spaniel named Daisy. The incident occurred in the Glendevon and Dunning Glen area, a popular spot for dog walkers in Perthshire, and has significantly impacted the group’s efforts to locate the beloved pet. The stolen item, a specialized trail camera, plays a vital role in tracking lost animals. Designed to capture images and videos of passing creatures without disturbing them, the camera allows searchers to monitor areas of interest and gain valuable insights into the movements of missing pets like Daisy, without having a large presence on the ground that could frighten a lost and potentially scared animal even further. The camera is particularly valuable in dense woodland areas like Dunning Glen, where traditional search methods can be challenging. A Setback for Daisy’s Search Daisy, along with her mother Tia, went missing from Auchterarder Public Park on February 24th. While Tia was tragically found deceased near the Duchally Estate, Daisy remains missing, leaving owner Anne McNamara and the Missing Pets team devastated. The theft of the trail camera has dealt a significant blow to the search, depriving volunteers of a key tool in their efforts to reunite Daisy with her owner. The Missing Pets Perth and Kinross group, entirely volunteer-led, has successfully reunited hundreds of lost pets with their owners across Perthshire over the past five years. Their work often involves challenging searches in varied terrains, from the Sidlaw Hills to the banks of the River Tay. The specialized equipment they use, like the stolen trail camera, is essential to their success and often purchased through fundraising efforts within the local community. This is not the first time the group has been targeted by thieves. In 2023, two similar trail cameras were stolen, highlighting the vulnerability of volunteers relying on such equipment. Community Support Continues Despite the setback caused by the theft, the search for Daisy continues, fueled by the dedication of the Missing Pets volunteers and the unwavering support of the local community. The team remains committed to exploring all available avenues, utilizing alternative tracking methods and relying on the public’s assistance with sightings and information. The incident has sparked outrage and sadness among Perth and Kinross residents, with many expressing their frustration and support for Missing Pets online. The group emphasizes the vital role such equipment plays in reuniting families with their lost companions and urges anyone with information about the stolen camera to come forward. The volunteers remain hopeful that Daisy will be found soon and express their gratitude for the ongoing support from the community during this difficult time. The search for Daisy serves as a reminder of the strong bond between people and their pets in Perth and Kinross, and the importance of community initiatives like Missing Pets Perth and Kinross. The team is considering ways to improve security for their equipment in the future, possibly by using stronger locks or GPS trackers, to minimize the risk of further thefts and ensure they can continue to effectively assist in locating missing animals across the region. The continued searches for Daisy have focused on areas around the public park where she was last seen, as well as further afield, including local woodlands and areas near the River Almond. Volunteers are distributing posters in Auchterarder and surrounding towns, hoping to raise awareness and generate new leads. The impact of Daisy’s disappearance has been felt across the local community, with many residents sharing their own stories of lost pets and offering support and encouragement to Anne McNamara. Missing Pets Perth and Kinross urges all pet owners in the region to microchip their animals and ensure their contact details are up-to-date, highlighting the crucial role this plays in successful reunions. They also recommend using secure harnesses and leads when walking dogs in public areas, especially near roads and waterways. The group regularly shares advice and tips for responsible pet ownership on their social media channels and website, offering valuable resources to the Perth and Kinross community.
Would You Be a Perth & Kinross Councillor for £25,000?
A recent pay rise for local councillors in Perth and Kinross has sparked a debate about the value and demands of public service. Following the first review of councillor remuneration since 2011, salaries have increased significantly, with some roles seeing a boost of up to 40%, pushing basic pay close to £25,000 annually. This substantial adjustment comes as residents face rising energy costs and council tax hikes of up to 11%, leading many to question whether councillors are truly earning their keep. Public Opinion Divided on Councillor Pay A poll conducted on the matter revealed a divided public. While a majority (56%) of the 125 respondents stated they wouldn’t take on the role for the offered salary, the remaining 44% suggests that the increased pay may entice some individuals to consider a career in local politics. This split highlights a nuanced perspective within the community: while some feel the role is not adequately compensated, others recognize the increasing demands and challenges faced by councillors in today’s climate. Several residents shared their opinions on the pay rise and the role of a councillor. Some, like Violet, acknowledged the varying levels of effectiveness among councillors, stating that some are “worth that salary and more,” while others are not. Violet also highlighted the “thankless task” of being a councillor, suggesting that those who are constantly critical of the council should consider running for office themselves, experiencing the challenges firsthand. Another resident, POV100, compared councillor salaries to those of newly qualified nurses, who often earn less than £25,000 while also juggling student loan repayments. This commenter argued that councillors don’t have the same level of responsibility or demanding work schedules as nurses, questioning the fairness of the pay disparity. POV100 emphasized the need for councillors to demonstrate a stronger commitment to public service to earn greater respect from their constituents. Liz argued for a return to the unpaid model of local representation, where individuals serve their communities without financial compensation. She emphasized that councillors “chose the path” and have the power to influence their own salaries while also receiving expenses. However, this view was challenged by Violet, who argued that unpaid positions would likely deter residents from taking on the significant time commitment and potential for public criticism that comes with being a councillor. The debate underscores the challenge faced by local authorities in attracting and retaining qualified individuals for public office. A Call for New Perspectives in Local Government In addition to the discussion surrounding pay, some community members believe attracting new perspectives requires a change in the demographics of local government. One commenter, Squatter Madras, proposed excluding retired individuals from holding councillor positions, arguing that the focus should be on “forward-looking present and future younger councillors” who can bring fresh ideas and represent the evolving needs of the community. This perspective reflects a desire for a more dynamic and representative council that can effectively address the challenges and opportunities facing Perth and Kinross in the years to come. The discussion surrounding councillor pay in Perth and Kinross is more than just about money; it’s a reflection of the community’s views on the value of public service, the challenges of local governance, and the need for a council that truly represents its constituents. As the region navigates a changing economic landscape and evolving community needs, the debate is likely to continue, shaping the future of local representation in Perth and Kinross.
Carse Medical Practice Closure Looms: NHS Tayside Explores Alternatives
Uncertainty hangs over the future of healthcare provision in the Carse of Gowrie as NHS Tayside grapples with the impending closure of Carse Medical Practice. The current GPs running the Errol surgery have given notice of their intention to terminate their contract, citing persistent difficulties in recruiting new doctors, particularly to replace those nearing retirement. The closure, scheduled for September 12, 2025, would leave a significant gap in primary care services between Perth and Dundee, impacting approximately 3,600 patients. While the practice’s website acknowledges the unsuccessful recruitment efforts and the subsequent decision to close, NHS Tayside has confirmed that closure is not the only option being considered. The health board is actively exploring a range of possibilities to ensure continued access to GP services for the affected community. Among the strategies being evaluated are attracting a new provider to operate the existing surgery, merging the practice with a neighboring one, or even having NHS Tayside directly manage the service. The possibility of integrating the practice with another directly-managed surgery within Tayside is also on the table, although no such practices currently exist in Perth and Kinross. Should a new GP be recruited, the possibility of withdrawing the closure notice entirely remains open. Community Leaders Seek Assurance and Urge Patient Retention The potential loss of the Carse Medical Practice follows the closure of Invergowrie Medical Practice in 2023, exacerbating concerns about access to healthcare in the Carse of Gowrie. Local political figures have voiced their concerns and pledged their support to find a viable solution. First Minister John Swinney, during a parliamentary session, acknowledged the unacceptability of patients facing long journeys for medical attention and committed to working with NHS Tayside to resolve the situation. Local councillor Alasdair Bailey, echoing community anxieties, has organized a public meeting at Errol Village Hall to discuss the issue. He has expressed cautious optimism about the options being explored by NHS Tayside and the First Minister’s involvement, hoping for a positive outcome for local residents. Fellow councillor Angus Forbes has emphasized the importance of patients remaining registered with Carse Medical Practice during this period. Maintaining patient numbers, he argues, will reinforce the community’s need for a fully-functioning GP surgery and strengthen the case presented to the NHS board. NHS Tayside, while acknowledging that these discussions are in their initial stages, has assured patients that the practice will remain fully operational until the September deadline and that they will be kept updated throughout the process. Navigating the Options The various options present a complex landscape for the future of the practice. Attracting a new provider could offer a seamless transition, but the recruitment challenges faced by the current GPs highlight the difficulty of this approach. Merging with another practice could create capacity issues and potentially impact travel times for patients. Direct management by NHS Tayside, while offering a solution, could present different administrative hurdles. Dispersing patients to surrounding practices, while a last resort, would significantly disrupt established patient-doctor relationships and potentially overwhelm existing services in Perth and Dundee. The preferred option, naturally, would be the recruitment of new GPs, allowing Carse Medical Practice to continue serving the community uninterrupted. The ongoing discussions between NHS Tayside, local representatives, and the community will be crucial in shaping the future of healthcare in the Carse of Gowrie, balancing the need for accessible local services with the practical realities of GP recruitment and resource management.
Perth City Centre Gas Leak Prompts Road Closure and Evacuations
A suspected gas leak caused disruption in Perth city centre on Thursday evening, leading to the closure of York Place and the evacuation of nearby businesses and residences. Emergency services swiftly responded to the incident, which occurred around 5:45 pm, affecting the section of York Place between New Row and Caledonian Road. The area was quickly cordoned off by police, and a fire engine, multiple police vehicles, and a Scottish Gas Networks (SGN) van were present at the scene. An eyewitness reported a noticeable smell of gas in the vicinity before the road closure, indicating the potential source of the leak might be near the Ball Room and Manzil Restaurant. Residents from affected buildings were temporarily evacuated as a safety measure. Rush Hour Disruption The incident coincided with the evening rush hour, causing traffic congestion and diversions. Commuters experienced delays as traffic was rerouted down Caledonian Road and Kinnoull Causeway. However, access to the AK Bell Library car park remained open throughout the incident. Situation Resolved York Place was reopened around 6:45 pm after the situation was brought under control. Although the road reopened, emergency vehicles and SGN personnel continued their work in the area to ensure complete safety and investigate the incident further. The eyewitness observed ongoing activity near the Manzil Restaurant, including barricades and what appeared to be digging related to the suspected leak. While the cause of the gas leak remains under investigation, the incident highlights the quick response of emergency services and the cooperation of Perth residents in ensuring public safety. The temporary road closure and evacuations underscore the importance of swift action in such situations to minimize potential risks. Residents are encouraged to report any suspected gas leaks to SGN immediately. Perth and Kinross Council confirmed that they were monitoring the situation and working with emergency services to provide support where necessary. Local businesses affected by the evacuations expressed their gratitude for the quick response and the minimal impact on their operations thanks to the efficient resolution of the incident. The council has also reiterated the importance of regular gas safety checks for all homeowners and businesses in the area. This incident serves as a timely reminder for residents and businesses alike to be vigilant and proactive in maintaining gas safety. By taking precautions and promptly reporting any concerns, the community can help prevent similar incidents and ensure the well-being of all.
Late-Night Rumble: Minor Earthquake Shakes Perthshire, Residents Report ‘Washing Machine’ Sound
Just before midnight on Wednesday, a minor earthquake briefly rattled parts of Highland Perthshire, startling residents and prompting a flurry of online discussions. The tremor, lasting approximately five seconds, was reported by individuals in Kinloch Rannoch, Glen Lyon, Tummel Bridge, Keltneyburn, and Fearnan. While the quake’s magnitude registered a modest 1.7 on the Richter scale, the experience was far from insignificant for those who felt it. Many described hearing a distinct rumbling, likened to the intense spin cycle of a washing machine, though significantly amplified. This auditory phenomenon, coupled with the subtle shaking of homes and the rattling of roof slates, quickly alerted residents to the unusual event. Earthquake Epicentre and Geological Context The British Geological Survey (BGS) pinpointed the earthquake’s epicentre a few miles south of Carn Mairg, a Munro situated north of Glen Lyon. Occurring at a depth of 3km, the quake’s energy waves propagated through the surrounding area, reaching the nearby hamlet of Balintyre, just five miles south of the epicentre. Thankfully, no property damage has been reported. Although Scotland is located far from the nearest plate boundary, the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, earthquakes are not entirely unheard of in the region. They are typically attributed to the release of crustal stresses within the tectonic plates. Movements along pre-existing fault planes allow these stresses to dissipate, occasionally resulting in tremors that are perceptible to residents. According to BGS seismologist Davie Galloway, the agency detects and locates between 200 and 300 earthquakes annually in the UK. While most are too small to be felt, 20 to 30 are noticeable each year. Galloway emphasizes the importance of considering seismic activity when designing infrastructure, particularly for sensitive installations, highlighting that the risk, while not constant, is far from negligible. Perthshire itself has experienced earthquake clusters before, notably in 2020 when Blackford was rattled by seven tremors within a single month. This recent event serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of the Earth’s crust, even in areas relatively distant from major tectonic activity. Resident Accounts and Community Response Ali Penman, a Kinloch Rannoch resident, shared his account of the event, describing the sudden, loud rumble that drew his attention. He noted the absence of noticeable shaking in his home, but the sheer volume of the noise marked it as an anomaly. Another resident echoed this sentiment, comparing the sound to a “noisy sudden spin” of a washing machine, but on a much grander scale. Other reports detailed houses shaking gently and the unsettling clatter of roof slates. Caroline Patterson, from Tummel Bridge, recalled her pets reacting to the tremor, noting that her dogs “shot through from their beds scared.” Though she described the experience as “vibrational,” she did not perceive any distinct movement in her house. Like others, her initial assumption was thunder or a passing vehicle, quickly dismissed as the true nature of the rumble became apparent. The event generated significant local interest, with discussions and shared experiences circulating online among Perthshire communities. This collective response reflects both a shared surprise at the unusual occurrence and the inherent resilience of communities in the face of such natural phenomena.
Alyth AFC’s Future Uncertain as Pavilion Remains Unrepaired After Fire
The future of Alyth Amateur Football Club (AFC) hangs in the balance as their home pavilion at Diamond Jubilee Park remains unusable nearly two years after a devastating fire. The blaze, which occurred in July 2023, significantly damaged the building just as renovations were nearing completion, forcing the club to play home games elsewhere and disrupting training schedules. The fire, determined to be deliberate, caused extensive damage to the pavilion, impacting Alyth AFC’s ability to operate effectively. The club has been unable to host home games in Alyth for two years, relying on the goodwill of other teams and venues. The lack of floodlights, removed by Perth and Kinross Council a few years prior without consultation, has further compounded their difficulties, preventing evening training sessions at their home ground. Council Urged to Take Action Alyth AFC, a first division team in the Perthshire Amateur Football Association, is now urging the council to expedite the pavilion’s repairs. Club president Dave Barclay expressed his concerns about the club’s future if the situation persists. He emphasized the club’s importance to the community, highlighting that Alyth AFC is the only remaining football club in the town, having previously boasted three. Barclay also acknowledged the generous support from locals through grants but stressed the council’s responsibility in maintaining vital community leisure facilities. He called for honesty and action from the council, reminding them of previous promises made regarding the pavilion’s restoration. Council Responds Following inquiries, Perth and Kinross Council stated that they understand the pavilion’s significance to the Alyth community and acknowledge the club’s anxieties. A council spokesperson confirmed initial discussions have occurred with Alyth AFC, and a follow-up meeting involving the contractor, the club, and other stakeholders will be scheduled. The aim is to establish a collaborative approach to finalize the necessary repairs, ensuring the pavilion serves the community once again. The council’s renewed commitment offers a glimmer of hope for Alyth AFC, suggesting a potential end to their two-year struggle and a return to playing on their home turf. The situation underlines the crucial role local authorities play in supporting grassroots sports and the importance of community engagement in maintaining vital leisure amenities. As Alyth AFC awaits the outcome of the upcoming meeting, the future of their club remains intertwined with the fate of the fire-damaged pavilion.
Perth Man Sentenced in £4 Million Cocaine Operation
A Perth resident has been sentenced to prison for his involvement in a significant drug trafficking operation that saw £4 million worth of cocaine seized by authorities. Brian Skinner, 58, was apprehended during a drug exchange in Glasgow’s Dennistoun area on October 12, 2023. He appeared alongside his co-accused, 35-year-old Shaun Willis, at the High Court in Glasgow. Both men had previously entered guilty pleas for their involvement in supplying the class A drug. Skinner received a four-and-a-half-year sentence from Judge Lord Mulholland, while Willis was given a longer term of five years and three months. The court heard details of the operation, which began when law enforcement received intelligence about a large cocaine shipment entering Scotland in a SEAT Cupra. Willis, who resides in Southport, England, was observed driving the vehicle north on the M74 motorway. Upon arriving in Glasgow, Willis parked on Dunragit Street next to an Audi A4 driven by Skinner. Officers witnessed the transfer of packages between the vehicles and promptly intervened. High-Purity Cocaine Seized A search of Skinner’s Audi uncovered 25 taped parcels containing cocaine, while another 15 packages were found in Willis’s SEAT. Subsequent analysis revealed the cocaine to have a purity level as high as 78%. Had the illicit substances reached street level in one-gram deals, the estimated street value could have exceeded £4 million. This substantial seizure underscores the scale of the operation and its potential impact on communities in Perth and Kinross and beyond. Skinner’s Perthshire Connections Skinner’s defense counsel, Graeme Brown, highlighted his client’s involvement with a local addiction therapy business. Brown portrayed Skinner as an individual who has previously contributed positively to society and expressed regret over his participation in the drug operation. He emphasized the unfortunate nature of the situation, given Skinner’s age and potential for continued contributions to the community. Meanwhile, Willis’s lawyer, David Nicholson, explained that his client’s role had been that of a ‘one-day courier,’ motivated by a personal debt and the promise of a £2,000 payment. The judge considered these factors during sentencing. This case serves as a reminder of the insidious reach of drug trafficking, affecting even those who may have been previously involved in combatting addiction. The sentencing of a Perth man in this multi-million-pound drug bust highlights the ongoing challenges faced by local communities in tackling organized crime and substance abuse. The high purity of the cocaine seized raises further concerns about the potential risks posed to public health and safety. This incident may prompt local authorities to review and strengthen existing strategies to combat drug-related crime, while community-based support services play a vital role in assisting individuals affected by addiction and preventing them from becoming involved in such activities.