Body Found in Pitlochry During Search for Missing Greenock Man
Tragedy struck in the Highland Perthshire town of Pitlochry on Sunday afternoon as police discovered a body during their search for a missing man. The grim discovery was made in the vicinity of Atholl Road shortly after 1 p.m. While formal identification is yet to be completed, Police Scotland has confirmed that the family of 56-year-old Thom Kane, reported missing from Greenock, has been notified of the find. Mr. Kane’s disappearance initially prompted a search focused on the Fort William area, raising questions about the circumstances that led him to Pitlochry. Perthshire Community Touched by Tragedy The news has resonated deeply within the Pitlochry community and throughout Perth and Kinross. This popular tourist destination, known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, is now grappling with the somber reality of this unfolding event. Locals expressed their condolences and shared their hopes for a swift resolution for Mr. Kane’s family. Investigation Underway Police Scotland has stated that they do not currently suspect any foul play in Mr. Kane’s death. A report will be submitted to the procurator fiscal, the Scottish public prosecutor, who will determine the appropriate course of action, which may include further investigation. This is standard procedure in sudden death cases in Scotland. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community support and awareness when individuals go missing. The investigation will likely seek to trace Mr. Kane’s movements between Greenock, Fort William, and ultimately Pitlochry to piece together the events leading to his death. As the investigation continues, the tight-knit communities of Perthshire offer their sympathies to Mr. Kane’s loved ones during this difficult time. This incident underscores the vital role local communities play in supporting one another and raising awareness when vulnerable individuals go missing. Pitlochry, like many towns across Perth and Kinross, demonstrates a strong sense of community spirit, and this shared concern is evident as the town comes to terms with this tragic event. Residents are reminded of the various resources available for those struggling with mental health challenges and urge anyone in need to reach out to local support networks or national helplines.
New Independent Bookstore Set to Open in Perth City Centre Thanks to Crowdfunder Campaign
A Fife entrepreneur is bringing the joy of reading back to Perth city centre with the launch of Quokka Bookstore, an independent bookshop set to open on George Street in early June. Owner Monica Turoni, 49, who currently operates Quokka Bookstore Ltd as an online retailer, saw a gap in Perth’s literary landscape and decided to take action. Recognizing Perth’s vibrant cultural scene, with its rich history, museums, and concert hall, Monica felt it was the perfect location for her venture. The city centre currently lacks a dedicated independent bookstore, and Quokka Bookstore aims to fill that void, offering a unique and personalized experience for book lovers of all ages. More than Just Books: A Community Hub Quokka Bookstore will be more than just a place to buy books. Monica envisions it as a community hub, hosting a variety of events and activities. From author talks and book signings to story time sessions for younger readers, the shop will foster a love of literature and create opportunities for people to connect. She is particularly passionate about engaging teenagers, a demographic often overlooked in the book world, and plans to launch a unique silent reading book club where teens can gather, share their literary interests, and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow bookworms without the pressure of public speaking. Crowdfunder Fuels the Dream To make this dream a reality, Monica launched a Crowdfunder campaign with a target of £10,000. This funding will cover the initial costs associated with setting up the physical shop, including the deposit for the George Street premises and other essential expenses. While she is prepared to seek a loan if necessary, Monica hopes the community will rally behind her project and help her achieve her goal of self-sufficiency. As a thank you to her supporters, Monica plans to create a special display within the bookstore, prominently featuring the names of all Crowdfunder donors. Additionally, contributors will be eligible for a range of exclusive rewards, such as limited edition books, special edition merchandise, and even a year-long book subscription service, delivering a fresh read to their doorstep every month. Monica’s commitment to creating a haven for book enthusiasts in Perth is evident in her plans for the store. She aims to offer a curated selection of books catering to diverse tastes, along with personalized recommendations and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. With its focus on community engagement, Quokka Bookstore promises to be a valuable addition to Perth’s cultural tapestry, enriching the lives of residents and visitors alike. This exciting new venture comes at a time of change for Perth’s retail landscape. Just recently, a beloved local café and fashion store announced its closure, highlighting the challenges faced by small businesses. Quokka Bookstore’s arrival offers a glimmer of hope, showcasing the entrepreneurial spirit and community focus that can revitalize city centres.
Perth Airport Van Crash Leaves Factory Worker Needing Reconstructive Surgery
A Methven man has been found guilty of careless driving after a collision at Perth Airport left a factory worker with serious injuries requiring reconstructive surgery. The incident occurred on the morning of October 3, 2022, as the 61-year-old victim walked to his job at a coffin factory near the airport. The court heard how the victim, who had just disembarked from a bus on the A94, was crossing Spitfire Avenue when he was struck by the silver Renault Trafic van driven by 37-year-old Paul Wishart. The impact of the collision caused the pedestrian to be thrown through the air, his head striking the van’s windscreen before he landed on the road. Serious Injuries and Lasting Impact Emergency services were called to the scene shortly after 7am, where they found the victim with multiple injuries. He was quickly transported to Ninewells Hospital for treatment. The collision caused significant disruption to morning commuters, as Spitfire Avenue, a vital route for those traveling to and from the airport and surrounding businesses, was closed for approximately an hour while investigators documented the scene and cleared the debris. Among the victim’s injuries were broken ribs, a severe laceration to his face and a fractured knee, requiring a plate to be surgically inserted by an orthopedic surgeon. The facial injury necessitated reconstructive surgery by a plastic surgeon to clean, seal, and close the wound. He also suffered a dislocated finger. The victim was discharged from the hospital after five days but the court heard that the injuries sustained have resulted in permanent impairment. Trial and Verdict Wishart, of Sauchob Crescent, Methven, initially pleaded not guilty to a charge of causing serious injury by dangerous driving. Over the course of the two-day trial, witnesses described the dramatic events that unfolded on Spitfire Avenue. Some recalled hearing the van’s engine revving before seeing the victim “flying across the road” after impact. Despite his initial plea, the jury found Wishart guilty of the lesser charge of careless driving. This verdict suggests that while his actions were not deemed dangerous enough to meet the criteria for the more serious charge, they were still negligent and contributed to the accident’s occurrence. The Procurator Fiscal highlighted the fact that the man was walking to work when he was hit as he pointed to Wishart’s lapse of judgement. They stressed, “It is not suggested that Mr Wishart intended to hurt anyone. But as a driver, you need to drive safely.” Sentencing and Community Concerns The sentencing of Paul Wishart has been scheduled for later this summer. The case has brought road safety at and around Perth Airport to the forefront. Local residents have expressed their concerns and are hoping that this incident will serve as a reminder to all drivers to be extra vigilant, especially in areas with high pedestrian traffic.
Perth Cyclist Critically Injured in Canal Street Collision
A Saturday night collision between a car and a cyclist on Canal Street in Perth has left the cyclist fighting for his life. The incident occurred around 10:45 PM, prompting a significant response from emergency services. The cyclist, a 58-year-old man, was transported to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee, where his condition remains critical. The driver of the white Kia Sportage involved in the accident was thankfully unharmed. The scene of the collision, a busy area of Perth city centre near the junction with Princes Street, saw a large presence of traffic officers and a collision investigation unit. Several police vehicles attended, with officers meticulously examining the area, using torches and placing yellow markers on the ground as part of their investigation. Road Closure and Investigation Canal Street was closed for approximately five hours while the police conducted a thorough investigation of the scene. This closure undoubtedly caused disruption for local residents and drivers, highlighting the serious nature of the incident. The prolonged road closure allowed the collision investigation unit to gather crucial evidence, map the scene, and piece together the events leading up to the collision. This detailed investigation underscores the commitment of Police Scotland to understanding the circumstances surrounding the accident. Community Impact and Safety Concerns This incident is a stark reminder of the vulnerability of cyclists on our roads. Perth, like many cities, has seen a rise in cycling in recent years, especially with the increasing popularity of initiatives like the Perth and Kinross Cycle Network and local cycling clubs. This accident underscores the need for continued focus on road safety and promoting awareness among all road users. It also raises questions about the safety of specific areas, such as Canal Street, and whether further measures could be implemented to improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians, especially during evening hours. The incident’s location, in the heart of Perth, adds to its impact on the community. Canal Street is a well-known area, close to many popular local businesses, the Perth Concert Hall, and the North Inch park. This familiarity adds a local dimension to the story, making the incident resonate more deeply with Perth residents. The news of the cyclist’s critical condition will undoubtedly cause concern within the local community, and many will be hoping for a positive outcome. Incidents like this can lead to community discussions about road safety, cycling infrastructure, and driver responsibility. This event could also prompt renewed calls for improved street lighting and traffic calming measures in the area. The incident has sparked discussions about broader road safety issues in the area. Residents have voiced concerns about traffic speeds on Canal Street, particularly during evening hours, and the need for more visible pedestrian and bicycle crossings. This incident has also prompted a call for greater public awareness campaigns promoting safer driving practices and increased consideration for vulnerable road users such as cyclists. Local cycling groups are also using this incident to highlight the need for dedicated cycle paths in the area. They argue that separated cycling infrastructure would significantly reduce the risk of accidents like this one and encourage more people to take up cycling as a safe and sustainable mode of transport. The ongoing investigation will hopefully shed further light on the specific circumstances surrounding the collision and potentially inform future safety improvements in the area.
Dunblane High School Shines in National Rankings
Dunblane High School has earned a coveted spot among Scotland’s top 20 secondary schools, according to the recently published Sunday Times Scotland 2025 Secondary School League Table. This achievement underscores the school’s commitment to academic excellence and the hard work of both students and staff. With 70% of its pupils achieving five Highers, Dunblane High stands out as a beacon of educational success in the Tayside, Fife, and Stirling areas. This impressive statistic reflects the dedication to learning fostered within the school’s walls and positions Dunblane High as a leading institution in the region. Local Schools Recognized for Performance While Dunblane High School celebrates its national recognition, several other schools across Perth and Kinross, Fife, Tayside, and Stirling also garnered noteworthy rankings. Grove Academy leads the way for Dundee, showcasing the city’s strength in education. Monifieth High School earns the highest ranking in Angus, reflecting a commitment to learning within the county. In Perth and Kinross, Kinross High School claims the top position, highlighting the region’s diverse educational landscape. Dunfermline High School takes the lead for Fife, demonstrating its ongoing pursuit of academic achievement. Bertha Park High School deserves special mention, demonstrating significant improvement by ascending an impressive 141 positions to rank 213th. This remarkable jump showcases the school’s focused efforts and dedication to providing a quality education. Such progress highlights the potential within local schools and the positive impact focused initiatives can have on student outcomes. A Closer Look at Stirling’s Schools The Sunday Times rankings offer valuable insights into the academic performance of schools across Scotland, including those closer to home in Stirling. Balfron High School secures a strong position within the top 30, while Bannockburn High School achieves a commendable ranking within the top 100, further bolstering Stirling’s representation in the table. McLaren High School’s performance places it comfortably within the top 75, showcasing the school’s effectiveness in fostering academic success. Stirling High School also secures a place in the top 150, demonstrating consistent academic achievement. Wallace High School joins the ranks of high-performing institutions within the top 125. These results provide a comprehensive overview of the educational landscape within Stirling and highlight the collective efforts of schools to equip students for success. St. Modan’s High School’s inclusion in the rankings adds to the depth and breadth of educational options available within the Stirling council area, offering a diverse range of choices for local families. This further solidifies the region’s reputation as a hub for quality education, catering to a variety of needs and learning styles. National Perspective and Local Impact Across Scotland, Jordanhill School in Glasgow continues its reign as the top-performing high school for the eighth consecutive year. The school’s unique grant-aided status, independent from council control, has sparked discussions about funding models and their impact on educational outcomes. While the debate continues at the national level, the success of Dunblane High School and other local institutions provides a tangible example of the achievements possible within the existing system. These results serve as a source of pride for the community and demonstrate the commitment to quality education across Perth and Kinross and the surrounding regions. Parents and guardians in Perth and Kinross seeking a deeper understanding of school performance are encouraged to explore the comprehensive league tables available on The Sunday Times website. This resource allows for detailed comparisons and offers a valuable tool for making informed decisions about their children’s education. The website also allows users to delve further into individual school results and contextual information. This resource empowers parents and promotes active engagement in the educational journey of their children. League Table Highlights Perthshire Pride The achievements of Dunblane High School and other local institutions in the Sunday Times rankings provide a valuable opportunity to reflect on the quality of education in Perthshire. This strong showing in national league tables reinforces the region’s commitment to nurturing young minds and preparing them for future success. As Perth and Kinross continues to grow and evolve, a robust education system remains a crucial pillar of the community’s identity and prosperity. The accomplishments of these schools serve as an inspiration to students, educators, and the entire community, underscoring the importance of investing in education for a brighter future.
Perth Chip Shop Owner Targeted in Racist Attack
A Perth chip shop owner was subjected to a racially motivated attack involving spitting and beer-throwing at his Tulloch establishment on March 29, 2024. The assailant, Elizabeth McLeish, 42, from Glasgow, became aggressive after being asked to leave the premises due to her disruptive behavior. The incident began when McLeish and a male companion entered Franchou Fish and Chip shop around 7:30 pm. While waiting for their order, McLeish dropped a can of beer, triggering a loud and disruptive outburst. The shop owner, witnessing the commotion and concerned for the comfort of other customers during the busy evening rush, requested McLeish to step outside. Racial Slurs and Assault Instead of complying, McLeish escalated the situation. She reportedly directed a racial slur at the chip shop owner, using deeply offensive language. The verbal assault was followed by a physical attack, with McLeish spitting at the owner three times and throwing the remaining contents of her beer can at him. The shop owner’s wife, also working at the takeaway, quickly intervened and alerted the police. Despite their request for McLeish to leave, she remained in the shop, continuing her tirade until officers arrived. False Accusation Upon being apprehended at her Glasgow residence, McLeish presented a fabricated account of the incident. She falsely claimed she had been the victim of assault, alleging that the chip shop owner had kicked her and attempted to punch her. This claim prompted police to review the takeaway’s security footage. The review unequivocally revealed the events as described by the shop owner and his wife, proving McLeish’s accusations to be baseless. The CCTV footage clearly documented her verbal abuse, spitting, and throwing the beer, directly contradicting her statement. This incident highlights the vital role of security measures like CCTV in ensuring accurate accounts of events and protecting individuals from false allegations. Court Appearance and Pending Sentence McLeish appeared at Perth Sheriff Court and pleaded guilty to assault and racially aggravated conduct towards the shop worker. Her defense solicitor, Alan Davie, acknowledged McLeish’s personal challenges. Sheriff Clair McLachlan deferred sentencing until October, pending McLeish’s continued good behavior. The sheriff indicated that a fine, rather than an admonishment, would likely be imposed if McLeish avoided further legal trouble. This deferral offers McLeish an opportunity to reflect on her actions and avoid escalating legal consequences. The incident has resonated within the Perth community, sparking discussions about the importance of tolerance and respect for business owners who contribute to the local economy and cultural landscape.
Understanding Castle Huntly: Open Prison Life and Procedures After Recent Absconding
Following the recent incident involving an absconded prisoner, many Perth and Kinross residents are seeking a clearer understanding of Castle Huntly, Scotland’s sole open prison. Located near Longforgan, just off the A90, the facility houses male prisoners deemed low-risk and operates under a philosophy of preparing inmates for reintegration into society. A Glimpse Inside Castle Huntly Castle Huntly is designed to hold up to 284 adult male prisoners under low-supervision conditions. The prison comprises three main residential sections: Murray House, featuring double-occupancy cells, and Bruce and Wallace Wings, offering single-occupancy cells. Inmates come from all over Scotland and serve a range of sentences, each case individually assessed by the Scottish Prison Service (SPS). The institution emphasizes personal responsibility, employment preparation, and community engagement to minimize re-offending risks. The historic estate, with roots in the 15th century, has served various functions over the years, including a probation school for girls and a borstal for boys. The Open Prison Model Open prisons differ significantly from closed facilities by providing a less restrictive environment. This approach allows inmates increased freedom and community interaction. Transfer to an open prison like Castle Huntly requires a comprehensive risk assessment and a track record of positive behavior within a secure prison environment. The SPS’s objective is to equip inmates with essential life skills and work experience to facilitate a successful transition back into their communities. The HMIPS inspection report from 2022 noted the absence of perimeter walls and vehicle locks at Castle Huntly, while highlighting existing security protocols for managing the facility. Criteria for Open Prison and Community Access Placement in an open prison and eligibility for community access involves rigorous evaluation by the SPS. Several factors are considered, including time served, demonstrated behavior in custody, overall risk assessment, and history of substance use. The process can involve supervised outings to gauge the prisoner’s readiness for more freedom. Long-term, life-sentenced prisoners, and those with Orders for Lifelong Restriction, can be granted community access only after a period in an open prison environment like Castle Huntly. This system aims to facilitate their transition back into society under controlled conditions. Freedoms and Responsibilities at Castle Huntly Inmates at Castle Huntly have the liberty to move around the grounds without constant supervision. Work programs within the prison and external work placements offer practical job training. Fitness amenities, both indoor and outdoor, are provided, and there are even gardens cultivated by the prisoners themselves. Constant staff presence, combined with CCTV surveillance, provides security oversight. Inmates meeting specific requirements, such as full community access and a minimum of 12 months’ residency, can qualify for an enhanced regime. This enhanced regime grants expanded freedoms, like weekend visits with family or a partner within a 20-mile radius and 12-hour unescorted day release on weekdays to a designated address within a 50-mile radius. These privileges are designed to reinforce family ties and prepare for independent living. However, it’s important to note that if a prisoner absconds, they are returned to a closed prison. Addressing Community Concerns The Scottish Prison Service emphasizes that the decision-making process for transferring inmates to open prisons and granting community access prioritizes public safety. The risk management team carefully evaluates each individual’s circumstances and potential risks. The goal is to balance the benefits of rehabilitation and reintegration with the need to ensure the well-being of Perth and Kinross communities. Statistics demonstrate the relative success of this model, with a 93% rate of prisoners released from Castle Huntly between March 2023 and March 2024 remaining out of custody. The aim of open prisons, and Castle Huntly specifically, is to aid offenders in becoming contributing members of society.
Steak Pie Controversy Shakes Kinross Farmers’ Market Opening Day
The highly anticipated return of the Kinross Farmers’ Market on Saturday was marred by a public disagreement between market organizers and a local farm, leaving some residents questioning the market’s procedures and communication. Despite the less-than-ideal weather, a large turnout of shoppers flocked to Kinross High Street to welcome the market back for its first event of the year. The lively atmosphere, however, was overshadowed by a social media post from Arngask Home Farm, located near Glenfarg. The farm announced their last-minute withdrawal from the market, citing complaints about their products. Allegations of Complaints and “Awful Behaviour” In a Facebook post published Saturday morning, Arngask Home Farm, owned and operated by Eilidh and Lloyd Verstage, stated that two unnamed businesses at the market had “objected in the strongest manner” to their presence with steak pies, lamb, and eggs. This last-minute notice, they claimed, left them with a surplus of unsold pies and a loss of income. Furthermore, the post expressed their distress over experiencing “awful behaviour” without providing specific details. The post concluded with a plea to customers to visit their farm to purchase the excess steak pies or to find them at the Rosemains Market in Pathhead. Market Organizers Respond to “Vitriol and Misinformation” The Kinross Farmers’ Market, known for showcasing over 25 local producers and running monthly from April to October, is an initiative of the Kinross-shire Local Events Organisation (KLEO). Following the farm’s post, KLEO’s volunteer committee issued a statement expressing their shock and sadness at the “vitriol, misinformation, and accusations” directed towards them. The committee strongly refuted the claim that any vendor had been banned from the market, labeling it a “myth.” They committed to a thorough investigation into the incident and a direct response to the involved parties. KLEO also pledged to address any shortcomings in their processes or communication that may have contributed to the situation. They emphasized their reliance on community support and asked for continued understanding as they worked to rectify any mistakes. Community Support Rallies Behind Farm Following the initial online post and the subsequent response from KLEO, Arngask Home Farm experienced an outpouring of support from the local community. A later update on their Facebook page reported that they had sold out of steak pies due to customers rallying to their aid. The farm expressed gratitude for the community’s “kindness” and acknowledged the overwhelming demand at their farm shop. They asked customers to consider visiting in the following days to alleviate the pressure caused by the sudden influx of traffic. Questions Remain While the farm enjoyed a positive outcome thanks to local support, the incident raises questions about the Kinross Farmers’ Market’s internal processes. The market, founded in 2015 by KLEO with support from the Community Food Fund, aims to promote local businesses and provide a platform for producers to connect with customers. This public disagreement highlights the importance of clear communication and transparent procedures to ensure the smooth operation of such initiatives, fostering a positive environment for all participants. This incident also underscores the significant impact of social media within the Perth and Kinross community. News travels quickly in our closely-knit area, and the rapid response from residents demonstrates the power of local support for businesses facing challenges. Whether enjoying a leisurely walk by Loch Leven or catching a performance at Perth Concert Hall, we often encounter familiar faces and businesses, reminding us of the interconnectedness of our community. As the market season continues, residents will be keen to see how KLEO addresses the issues raised and what steps are taken to ensure a more harmonious relationship between vendors and organizers in the future.
Dundee Actor’s ITV Gameshow Journey Ends in Controversial Rule Break
Local actor Finlay McKillop, a former student of the High School of Dundee, saw his run on ITV’s new gameshow, 99 To Beat, come to a dramatic end due to a controversial rule infraction. The show, hosted by celebrity brothers Ryan and Adam Thomas, pits 100 contestants against each other in a series of seemingly simple challenges, reminiscent of the popular Netflix series Squid Game, with a £25,000 prize awaiting the ultimate victor. Viewers in Perth and Kinross may recognize McKillop from his current lead role as Will in the stage musical *Restless Natives* at Perth Theatre. His gameshow elimination coincided with the musical’s opening weekend, offering a unique local connection to the Saturday night entertainment. Tin Can Challenge Leads to Downfall The episode began with 26 contestants vying for a spot in the next round. The challenge that sealed McKillop’s fate involved maneuvering a tin can across a finish line using only a ball suspended within a sock attached to their waist. This unusual test demanded a delicate balance of core strength, precision, and a healthy dose of patience. The last contestant to complete the course would be eliminated. McKillop, known for his online presence with over 4.5 million likes on TikTok, initially expressed confidence in his strategy. He even had a contingency plan, highlighting the competitive spirit he’d honed in the acting world. However, as the challenge progressed, it became clear that his plan wasn’t working. With only one other competitor, 63-year-old Kent radio presenter Robin Nixon, still on the course, McKillop found himself lagging significantly behind. Facing imminent elimination, McKillop admitted to a change in tactics. In a surprising move, he abruptly launched the ball forward, sending it over the finish line and seemingly securing his place in the next round. However, his victory was short-lived. A Rule Break and a Bitter Farewell A resounding buzzer halted the celebrations. The show’s producers announced a rule violation, revealing that McKillop had used his hand to propel the ball, a clear breach of the challenge’s regulations. He was instructed to return to the starting point, while Nixon was allowed to resume from his previous position, just shy of the finish line. This effectively guaranteed McKillop’s elimination, which was confirmed shortly after Nixon completed the course. The hosts described the situation as a ‘controversial night’ for the Dundee actor, who accepted the ruling with a mix of disappointment and humor. He acknowledged his error and expressed his renewed focus on his theatrical pursuits, wishing for success in the West End. From Gameshow to Stage Spotlight Despite his gameshow setback, McKillop remains positive. He’s currently captivating audiences in Perth with his performance in *Restless Natives: The Musical*, a production drawing locals and visitors alike to experience a unique blend of Scottish storytelling and musical talent. The show offers a captivating theatre experience in the heart of Perth, providing a perfect cultural outing for residents of Perth and Kinross. This blend of national television exposure and local theatrical involvement offers a fascinating glimpse into the multifaceted talents of a rising star with roots in the community. For those looking for a compelling theatre experience close to home, *Restless Natives* provides an excellent opportunity to support a local actor making waves both on screen and on stage.
Perthshire Pensioner Banned After Causing Road Collision with Pram
A Perthshire road incident involving an elderly driver and a woman pushing a pram has resulted in a driving ban and a substantial fine for the pensioner. The incident, which occurred in September 2022 on the B9099 between Stanley and Luncarty, brought to light concerns about road safety and the impact of such events on the local community. 84-year-old Michael McEwan, a resident of Craigie Road in Perth, was found guilty of careless driving following a jury trial at Forfar Sheriff Court. The original charge of dangerous driving was reduced, but the court determined that McEwan’s actions were negligent and directly contributed to the incident. Sequence of Events and Injuries The incident unfolded as McEwan was driving along the rural B9099, where his car was observed repeatedly swerving across the road. Ultimately, the vehicle mounted the kerb near Downhill Cottage, colliding with the woman and her pram. Thankfully, the 18-month-old child in the pram escaped unharmed. However, the woman suffered injuries, including a mild head injury and a fractured toe, requiring treatment at Ninewells Hospital’s A&E department. Initially discharged with a moon boot, the woman’s condition worsened, with subsequent visits to her GP in Stanley revealing further bruising. Additionally, she reported experiencing night terrors a month after the collision, necessitating the prescription of beta-blockers. Legal Proceedings and Sentencing During the court proceedings, McEwan’s solicitor, Linda Clark, emphasized her client’s advanced age, his previously unblemished legal record, and his involvement in community volunteer work. Ms. Clark expressed confidence that such an incident would not reoccur and highlighted McEwan’s dedication to community service. Sheriff Mark Thorley considered these factors, along with McEwan’s cooperation with social workers following the incident. However, given the severity of the situation and the lasting impact on the victim, Sheriff Thorley imposed a fine of £1,575 and disqualified McEwan from driving for three years. As the damage to the pram had already been addressed by McEwan’s insurer, no additional compensation order was issued. The Sheriff characterized McEwan’s driving as showing ‘a matter of some carelessness,’ acknowledging the disruption this ban would cause to his volunteering activities, as he would now be reliant on others for transportation. This incident serves as a reminder for drivers of all ages in Perth and Kinross to exercise caution, especially on rural roads. Road safety initiatives and community support networks are vital to ensuring the well-being of all residents, and incidents like this one underscore the need for continued focus on these efforts. This case has resonated with Perth residents who frequent the scenic B9099, popular with families for walks and outings to local attractions like the Stanley Mills and the village of Luncarty. The outcome has sparked conversations about road safety, senior driving assessments, and the need for increased vigilance on rural roads. Furthermore, the incident has prompted local community groups to organize initiatives aimed at promoting safe driving practices, especially for senior citizens. These include workshops on road awareness and car maintenance checks, encouraging proactive measures to prevent future accidents. These initiatives are part of a broader effort within the Perth and Kinross area to improve road safety for everyone. The victim’s recovery is being closely followed by the local community, demonstrating the sense of care and support prevalent in the area. Local support groups and organizations are offering assistance to help the woman manage the lingering effects of the accident and return to her regular activities.