thedailyrecord--2020-01-10--Perth Street Pastor wants to grow the service

A Perth Street Pastor is looking to bring the service to remote parts of the north of Scotland this year .
Rev Sandy Gunn says he hopes to see Street Pastors patrolling the streets of Wick and Thurso in Caithness on Friday and Saturday nights by the summer .
Street Pastors are made up of volunteers from a number of different churches , and go on patrol around Perth city centre between 10pm and 4am .
Wearing branded jackets and caps , they offer flip flops to women who have taken off their high heels because their feet are sore @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cold , and hand out Spikeys , an anti-date rape plastic bottle stopper .
The pastors also offer revellers hot drinks , chocolate and lollipops to try and help them to maintain their blood sugar levels after a heavy night of drinking .
And they also deal with many low-level situations that would ordinarily be handled by the police , such as calming people down if they become rowdy .
Founded in 2003 , Street Pastors are now operating in more than 20 towns and cities across Scotland .
Now , Rev Gunn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Aberfeldy Parish Church and Dull Church , is hoping to expand the service further north .
He said : “ I am the original Dull minister but Street Pastors are anything but .
“ In an age when many feel that they are just a number , weseek to show and share the care of Jesus who noticed and valued all kinds of folk.
” People over the age of 18 are now being encouraged to become trained volunteers .
Described as Christianity in action , the Street Pastor teams will be able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and help on the streets of Caithness if this move is successful .
The teams also provide a listening ear to people who are traumatised or distressed on a night out .
Although he has retired from parish ministry , Rev Gunn continues to be a key player with Ascension Trust Scotland , the umbrella organisation of the Street Pastors .
He stressed the importance of listening to people , and said volunteers will engage with people with mental health issues , victims of sexual assault , stalking and rough sleepers .
Rev @ @ @ @ @ @ @ boil needs to be lanced in an antiseptic atmosphere , it is unhelpful for unhealthy thoughts to be bottled up .
“ Such thoughts need to be unburdened in a caring atmosphere .
“ There is a need for people to listen , care and help confidentially and non-judgementally.
” The Ascension Trust was one of six organisations the Church of Scotland Guild supported between 2015 and 2018 .
During this time , the guild members raised £131,804 for the trust .
This money was used to develop training and other resources to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Iain Whyte , secretary to the guild , said : “ The guild was delighted to have worked with the Street Pastors as they seek to be alongside people , mostly young people , at times of stress , vulnerability and even danger .
“ We see the work of the Street Pastors as a living out of the guild ’ s tenets of worship , prayer , fellowship and action and as a practical demonstration of our call to serve .
”

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A Perth Street Pastor is looking to bring the service to remote parts of the north of Scotland this year.
Rev Sandy Gunn says he hopes to see Street Pastors patrolling the streets of Wick and Thurso in Caithness on Friday and Saturday nights by the summer.
Street Pastors are made up of volunteers from a number of different churches, and go on patrol around Perth city centre between 10pm and 4am.
Wearing branded jackets and caps, they offer flip flops to women who have taken off their high heels because their feet are sore, foil blankets for people who are cold, and hand out Spikeys, an anti-date rape plastic bottle stopper.
The pastors also offer revellers hot drinks, chocolate and lollipops to try and help them to maintain their blood sugar levels after a heavy night of drinking.
And they also deal with many low-level situations that would ordinarily be handled by the police, such as calming people down if they become rowdy.
Founded in 2003, Street Pastors are now operating in more than 20 towns and cities across Scotland.
Now, Rev Gunn, who is a former minister of Aberfeldy Parish Church and Dull Church, is hoping to expand the service further north.
He said: “I am the original Dull minister but Street Pastors are anything but.
“In an age when many feel that they are just a number, weseek to show and share the care of Jesus who noticed and valued all kinds of folk.”
People over the age of 18 are now being encouraged to become trained volunteers.
Described as Christianity in action, the Street Pastor teams will be able to offer reassurance, safety, support and help on the streets of Caithness if this move is successful.
The teams also provide a listening ear to people who are traumatised or distressed on a night out.
Although he has retired from parish ministry, Rev Gunn continues to be a key player with Ascension Trust Scotland, the umbrella organisation of the Street Pastors.
He stressed the importance of listening to people, and said volunteers will engage with people with mental health issues, victims of sexual assault, stalking and rough sleepers.
Rev Gunn continued: “Just as a boil needs to be lanced in an antiseptic atmosphere, it is unhelpful for unhealthy thoughts to be bottled up.
“Such thoughts need to be unburdened in a caring atmosphere.
“There is a need for people to listen, care and help confidentially and non-judgementally.”
The Ascension Trust was one of six organisations the Church of Scotland Guild supported between 2015 and 2018.
During this time, the guild members raised £131,804 for the trust.
This money was used to develop training and other resources to expand the work of the Street Pastors.
Iain Whyte, secretary to the guild, said: “The guild was delighted to have worked with the Street Pastors as they seek to be alongside people, mostly young people, at times of stress, vulnerability and even danger.
“We see the work of the Street Pastors as a living out of the guild’s tenets of worship, prayer, fellowship and action and as a practical demonstration of our call to serve.”


thedailyrecord--2020-01-10--Perth gospel group denied permission to build new place of worship because it would clog up roads

A religious group has been denied consent to build a new place of worship on the outskirts of Perth .
Perth Gospel Trust applied to construct a single storey timber building capable of accommodating 50 worshippers east of Kinfauns last October .
The group , which is affiliated with the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church , filed the application just three months after applying to build another new place of worship in Old Edinburgh Road in Bridge of Earn .
It already owns an existing hall at Wicks O ’ Baiglie Road which can accomodate 800 visitors .
Their agents Gray @ @ @ @ @ @ @ statement for the Kinfauns application : “ The Trust has purchased the subject land to enable it to offer smaller-scale , smaller group gatherings on an ‘ as required ’ basis , for worship and as complementary to the main Gospel Hall at Wicks O ’ Baiglie Road , for a capacity of up to 50 visitors.
” However PKC has said these “ smaller ” group gatherings “ could be considered significant in the context of Kinfauns ” and has opted to refuse the application after concluding attending worshippers could clog up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : “ Kinfauns is a hamlet with a small population and a relatively infrequent bus service .
The accessibility of this site can not be described as good , other than for those living locally in Kinfauns .
“ The proposed parking provision of 29 spaces ( including the overflow car park ) also suggests that most visitors would be expected to arrive by car .
“ The proposal is therefore not in a location considered to be sufficiently accessible in terms of the provision made for access by modes of transport @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also said in its report it had concerns the new building and its car park would “ dominate ” an area designated as open space as well as have an adverse impact on visual amenity in the area .
The Trust ’ s earlier application to build a second place of worship in Bridge of Earn has yet to be determined by PKC planners .

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A religious group has been denied consent to build a new place of worship on the outskirts of Perth.
Perth Gospel Trust applied to construct a single storey timber building capable of accommodating 50 worshippers east of Kinfauns last October.
The group, which is affiliated with the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church, filed the application just three months after applying to build another new place of worship in Old Edinburgh Road in Bridge of Earn.
It already owns an existing hall at Wicks O’ Baiglie Road which can accomodate 800 visitors.
Their agents Gray Planning and Development explained in a supporting statement for the Kinfauns application: “The Trust has purchased the subject land to enable it to offer smaller-scale, smaller group gatherings on an ‘as required’ basis, for worship and as complementary to the main Gospel Hall at Wicks O’ Baiglie Road , for a capacity of up to 50 visitors.”
However PKC has said these “smaller” group gatherings “could be considered significant in the context of Kinfauns” and has opted to refuse the application after concluding attending worshippers could clog up local roads.
Its report of handling said: “Kinfauns is a hamlet with a small population and a relatively infrequent bus service. The accessibility of this site cannot be described as good, other than for those living locally in Kinfauns.
“The proposed parking provision of 29 spaces (including the overflow car park) also suggests that most visitors would be expected to arrive by car.
“The proposal is therefore not in a location considered to be sufficiently accessible in terms of the provision made for access by modes of transport other than the private car.”
PKC also said in its report it had concerns the new building and its car park would “dominate” an area designated as open space as well as have an adverse impact on visual amenity in the area.
The Trust’s earlier application to build a second place of worship in Bridge of Earn has yet to be determined by PKC planners.


thedailyrecord--2020-01-10--Owen Hassan murderers jailed for 40 years after brutal slaying outside Glasgow pub

Two killers who brutally attacked a man outside his mum 's pub have been jailed for a total of more than 40 years .
Craig Corrall , 39 , and David Callaghan , 30 , pounced on Owen Hassan in November 2018 .
The 30 year-old dad died after being stabbed in the heart outside the Old Stag Inn bar – run by his mum Ann Marie Lynch in Glasgow 's Pollokshaws .
The thugs were jailed for life at the High Court in Glasgow after they were convicted of murder .
Jurors heard at a trial how raging Corrall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” after discovering Mr Hassan had been seeing his ex-lover .
He was instead locked up for at least 20 years and six months while Callaghan was sentenced to 20 years .
Lord Woolman told the pair the attack was “ pre-mediated and vicious ” .
The judge said : “ In a victim impact statement , his mother said she can not describe the physical pain she feels daily , the sickness in her stomach and the ache in her heart.
” He added the jury rejected claims the killers had been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hassan 's mum told the trial how she found her dying son “ covered in blood ” after he was set upon on November 7 2018 .
Lynch : “ I was trying to get a phone to call an ambulance .
I was just trying to help him.
” The 55 year-old also went after her Hassan 's attackers as they fled .
One yelled at her : “ F*** off , missus.
” Miss Lynch recalled : “ I just thought : “ Who are you ... what have you done @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also came to Hassan 's aid .
The 65 year-old tried to shield Lynch from her son 's gruesome injuries .
Nolan recalled the victim 's “ face hanging off ” as he lay in the street .
The electrician told the trial how one of the attackers “ strolled ” away after the killing .
Nolan : “ The guy turned around and just stared at me .
He had a weapon .
There was no speech , nothing .
“ It was a butcher 's knife .
It was big ... @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trying to cling to life , but that “ his eyes were going by the second ” .
Corrall and Callaghan were eventually held for the murder in March this year following a large scale investigation .
Corrall 's former partner Stephanie Kinnaird was quizzed during the probe .
They had been together for eight years before she had a brief relationship with Mr Hassan in 2018 .
She blocked Corrall 's number after he then bombarded her with abusive and threatening texts .
Prosecutor Lynsey MacDonald asked her : “ Did it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relationship with Hassan ?
” The 28 year-old replied : “ At the beginning , no , but then I received messages from Craig that he knew.
” One message stated : “ I told you .
It 's me or him who dies ... ” Another included : “ You mean nothing to me ... and remember I am prepared to die or do 20 years.
” A further text claimed Corrall would go to jail “ as long as its worth it ” .
The trial heard Corrall went on to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ stabbed the f*** out ” of Hassan .
Stephen Ward recalled how the thug earlier confessed he had “ done something bad ” .
The 24 year-old told jurors : “ He informed me where it had taken place .
He said that it was a very short distance from the Old Stag Inn in Pollokshaws.
” The court heard today/yesterday that both thugs continue to protest their innocence .

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Two killers who brutally attacked a man outside his mum's pub have been jailed for a total of more than 40 years.
Craig Corrall, 39, and David Callaghan, 30, pounced on Owen Hassan in November 2018.
The 30 year-old dad died after being stabbed in the heart outside the Old Stag Inn bar – run by his mum Ann Marie Lynch in Glasgow's Pollokshaws.
The thugs were jailed for life at the High Court in Glasgow after they were convicted of murder.
Jurors heard at a trial how raging Corrall was “prepared to do 20 years” after discovering Mr Hassan had been seeing his ex-lover.
He was instead locked up for at least 20 years and six months while Callaghan was sentenced to 20 years.
Lord Woolman told the pair the attack was “pre-mediated and vicious”.
The judge said: “In a victim impact statement, his mother said she cannot describe the physical pain she feels daily, the sickness in her stomach and the ache in her heart.”
(Image: Daily Record)
He added the jury rejected claims the killers had been victims of “mistaken identity”.
Hassan's mum told the trial how she found her dying son “covered in blood” after he was set upon on November 7 2018.
Lynch: “I was trying to get a phone to call an ambulance. I was just trying to help him.”
The 55 year-old also went after her Hassan 's attackers as they fled.
One yelled at her: “F*** off, missus.”
Miss Lynch recalled: “I just thought: “Who are you...what have you done?'.”
Her friend James Nolan also came to Hassan's aid.
The 65 year-old tried to shield Lynch from her son's gruesome injuries.
Nolan recalled the victim's “face hanging off” as he lay in the street.
The electrician told the trial how one of the attackers “strolled” away after the killing.
Nolan: “The guy turned around and just stared at me. He had a weapon. There was no speech, nothing.
“It was a butcher's knife. It was big...seriously big.”
(Image: Police Scotland)
The witness recalled Hassan trying to cling to life, but that “his eyes were going by the second”.
Corrall and Callaghan were eventually held for the murder in March this year following a large scale investigation.
Corrall's former partner Stephanie Kinnaird was quizzed during the probe.
They had been together for eight years before she had a brief relationship with Mr Hassan in 2018.
She blocked Corrall's number after he then bombarded her with abusive and threatening texts.
Prosecutor Lynsey MacDonald asked her: “Did it become apparent that Corrall knew about your relationship with Hassan ?”
The 28 year-old replied: “At the beginning, no, but then I received messages from Craig that he knew.”
One message stated: “I told you. It's me or him who dies...”
(Image: Daily Record)
Another included: “You mean nothing to me...and remember I am prepared to die or do 20 years.”
A further text claimed Corrall would go to jail “as long as its worth it”.
The trial heard Corrall went on to boast to a friend that he had “stabbed the f*** out” of Hassan.
Stephen Ward recalled how the thug earlier confessed he had “done something bad”.
The 24 year-old told jurors: “He informed me where it had taken place. He said that it was a very short distance from the Old Stag Inn in Pollokshaws.”
The court heard today/yesterday that both thugs continue to protest their innocence.


thedailyrecord--2020-01-10--Blairgowrie retail park could bring 100 jobs to the area

Designs for a new shopping centre on the edge of Blairgowrie could create around 100 jobs look certain to be approved by councillors next week .
The proposal for two large retail stores , plus three smaller ones off Perth Road , is said to be the first part of a much wider development which could see hundreds of new homes , a school and a care home constructed over the next few years .
The Westpark Partnership got in-principle planning permission from Perth and Kinross Council for the whole scheme two years ago .
The two larger units are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Home Bargains , but it ’ s unclear at this stage who is interested in moving into the smaller ones .
A report to the council ’ s planning committee next Wednesday ( January 15 ) says : “ The applicant has provided a retail impact assessment and a supplementary note on employment impact which provides a forecast of construction expenditure , retail turnover and jobs during both the construction and operation of the retail units .
“ The construction of the five retail units would cost approximately £7 million and directly generate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In turn , indirectly this will likely impact on the level of jobs that the construction activity will generate from employees spending on local goods and services , although this is not assessed .
“ Once operational , the assessment predicts that the cumulative annual turnover for all the units combined would be £16m – of which 20-50 per cent per unit would be displacement within the retail primary catchment area .
`` This will see retail spending being retained in Blairgowrie and reduce expenditure leakage to Perth and Dundee in particular .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ equivalent ( FTE ) jobs would be created , which would be a net additional increase of 67.4 FTE jobs in the catchment area.
” The Westpark Partnership ’ s so-called “ approval of matters specified by condition ” application for the retail units attracted a single objection from one disgruntled local who claimed the project goes against “ all common sense on how we need to manage our local towns at a time when we are facing an existential threat from climate breakdown.
” The objector blasted : “ The local community @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proposal for biodiversity offsetting .
“ We are in the middle of the sixth mass extinction on Earth , not seen for over 260 million years , and this project is a prime example of how local governance is failing .
`` Biodiversity loss on this scale to a town of our size is unacceptable .

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Designs for a new shopping centre on the edge of Blairgowrie could create around 100 jobs look certain to be approved by councillors next week.
The proposal for two large retail stores, plus three smaller ones off Perth Road, is said to be the first part of a much wider development which could see hundreds of new homes, a school and a care home constructed over the next few years.
The Westpark Partnership got in-principle planning permission from Perth and Kinross Council for the whole scheme two years ago.
The two larger units are set to be occupied by Lidl and Home Bargains, but it’s unclear at this stage who is interested in moving into the smaller ones.
A report to the council’s planning committee next Wednesday (January 15) says: “The applicant has provided a retail impact assessment and a supplementary note on employment impact which provides a forecast of construction expenditure, retail turnover and jobs during both the construction and operation of the retail units.
“The construction of the five retail units would cost approximately £7 million and directly generate 45-50 construction jobs during this period. In turn, indirectly this will likely impact on the level of jobs that the construction activity will generate from employees spending on local goods and services, although this is not assessed.
“Once operational, the assessment predicts that the cumulative annual turnover for all the units combined would be £16m – of which 20-50 per cent per unit would be displacement within the retail primary catchment area.
"This will see retail spending being retained in Blairgowrie and reduce expenditure leakage to Perth and Dundee in particular.
“A total of 96.7 full time equivalent (FTE) jobs would be created, which would be a net additional increase of 67.4 FTE jobs in the catchment area.”
The Westpark Partnership’s so-called “approval of matters specified by condition” application for the retail units attracted a single objection from one disgruntled local who claimed the project goes against “all common sense on how we need to manage our local towns at a time when we are facing an existential threat from climate breakdown.”
The objector blasted: “The local community [has] still not received any proposal for biodiversity offsetting.
“We are in the middle of the sixth mass extinction on Earth, not seen for over 260 million years, and this project is a prime example of how local governance is failing.
"Biodiversity loss on this scale to a town of our size is unacceptable.
"It must stop now.”


thedailyrecord--2020-01-10--Kinross hotel demolition set to get the go-ahead

Councillors will be asked to approve an application to demolish a former hotel in Kinross next week so new assisted living homes can be built in its place .
Officials have decided to back Juniper Residential ’ s proposal to pull down the Windlestrae Hotel to make room for 41 new properties and will recommend the council ’ s planning committee approve it next Wednesday ( January 15 ) .
The hotel ’ s owners opted to close it for good in October 2018 .
Juniper Residential ’ s application attracted 23 objections during a consultation , including one from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dozens of trees the company will have to fell so it can create a mix of houses , cottages and apartments on the site for people aged over 55 .
PKC ’ s report of handling acknowledges “ the majority ” of these trees will have to be cleared but adds officials “ considered ” their loss to be acceptable as they believe the applicant ’ s have “ adequately ” addressed the trust ’ s concerns by proposing to plant replacements .
The report states : “ Whilst the existing landscaping was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ local dog walkers , in terms of the potential impact on loss of amenity through tree removal , the impact would mainly be on the detached property Woodlands and the residents of 7-17 Muirpark Road , Kinross .
There is an established hedgerow bounding Woodlands and its driveway on the south boundary , and a mature woodland on the east boundary .
“ It is considered that if the larger conifers are removed , their loss would have limited impact if viewing from the south or east .
The landscaping plan proposes planting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which would consolidate the south boundaries of the site .
“ The soft landscaping plan ... Keith Wood proposes 57 trees using multi stemmed , selected standard and heavy standard tree stock , within the site frontages and rear garden areas .
In addition , evergreen and deciduous hedges are proposed between property garden within some rear gardens and at certain frontages .
“ It is considered that the proposed plan if fully implemented would result in an attractive site , with proposed planting considered appropriate for the recognised residential use .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the site and would serve to ameliorate the street scene and provide amenity benefit for the future users of the site .
“ The proposal is therefore considered to comply with [ council ] policy ... as the loss of trees on the site has been adequately mitigated .
”

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Councillors will be asked to approve an application to demolish a former hotel in Kinross next week so new assisted living homes can be built in its place.
Officials have decided to back Juniper Residential’s proposal to pull down the Windlestrae Hotel to make room for 41 new properties and will recommend the council’s planning committee approve it next Wednesday (January 15).
The hotel’s owners opted to close it for good in October 2018.
Juniper Residential’s application attracted 23 objections during a consultation, including one from the Kinross-shire Civic Trust raising concerns about dozens of trees the company will have to fell so it can create a mix of houses, cottages and apartments on the site for people aged over 55.
PKC’s report of handling acknowledges “the majority” of these trees will have to be cleared but adds officials “considered” their loss to be acceptable as they believe the applicant’s have “adequately” addressed the trust’s concerns by proposing to plant replacements.
The report states: “Whilst the existing landscaping was attractive to the former hotel users and local dog walkers, in terms of the potential impact on loss of amenity through tree removal, the impact would mainly be on the detached property Woodlands and the residents of 7-17 Muirpark Road, Kinross. There is an established hedgerow bounding Woodlands and its driveway on the south boundary, and a mature woodland on the east boundary.
“It is considered that if the larger conifers are removed, their loss would have limited impact if viewing from the south or east. The landscaping plan proposes planting along the north boundary of Market Park, which would consolidate the south boundaries of the site.
“The soft landscaping plan ... Keith Wood proposes 57 trees using multi stemmed, selected standard and heavy standard tree stock, within the site frontages and rear garden areas. In addition, evergreen and deciduous hedges are proposed between property garden within some rear gardens and at certain frontages.
“It is considered that the proposed plan if fully implemented would result in an attractive site, with proposed planting considered appropriate for the recognised residential use.
“The tree species proposed is appropriate for the site and would serve to ameliorate the street scene and provide amenity benefit for the future users of the site.
“The proposal is therefore considered to comply with [council] policy ... as the loss of trees on the site has been adequately mitigated.”


thedailyrecord--2020-01-10--Hamilton driver who caused death of elderly woman spared jail

A Hamilton motorist who caused the death of an elderly woman has been spared a prison sentence .
Widow Rose O ’ Donnell , 78 , was struck by a car on a pedestrian crossing on Airbles Road , Motherwell , as she walked to a paper shop .
Driver Stuart McMillan told police he couldn ’ t understand how he hadn ’ t seen her as she crossed the road .
McMillan , 41 , of Shaw Drive , Hamilton , appeared at the town ’ s Sheriff Court on Tuesday and admitted causing death by careless driving on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ placed under supervision for a year and must attend a programme for traffic offenders .
He was also banned from driving for a year .
Ruth Ross-Davie , prosecuting , said Mrs O ’ Donnell , who lived with her son in Avon Street , Motherwell , died in hospital three days after the collision .
She was crossing the dual carriageway , where the speed limit is 30mph , when she was hit by McMillan ’ s Nissan Qashqai around 11.25am .
Ms Ross-Davie told the court the accused had a clear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The lights were at green , but McMillan should have been able to slow and let Mrs O ’ Donnell finish crossing the road .
The prosecutor said : “ Mrs O ’ Donnell was walking towards the central reservation when she was struck by the wing mirror of the accused ’ s vehicle .
She fell to the ground .
McMillan and the driver behind him stopped .
“ She was taken to Wishaw General Hospital with injuries to her leg and face .
These were serious but not life-threatening .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Infirmary for surgery , but that led to cardiac arrest and she died on September 18 .
“ Mrs O ’ Donnell had been in frail health and the trauma of the necessary surgery proved fatal to her .
“ I have been asked by next of kin to say the impact of their mother ’ s death is impossible to put into words .
She was a very dearly loved mother who is badly missed.
” McMillan , whose 13-year-old daughter was in the car , gave a negative breath test and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ don ’ t understand how I didn ’ t see her.
” The prosecutor added : “ He was in the right hand lane and focused on turning right .
He didn ’ t see Mrs O ’ Donnell approaching from the left.
” Defence agent Jackson Bateman said McMillan was grateful for a letter from the family which made clear they bore no animosity towards him .
Passing sentence , Sheriff Millar expressed his sympathy to the dead woman ’ s family .
He said the level of carelessness shown by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ McMillan : “ Your failure was not to notice the lady crossing from your left when you were concentrating on a right hand turn .
You have a good driving record with no convictions .
“ You expressed remorse at the time and it ’ s clear from background reports what effect this has had on you and your family , particularly your daughter who was a passenger in your car .
I ’ m satisfied a community-based disposal is appropriate in the circumstances .
”

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A Hamilton motorist who caused the death of an elderly woman has been spared a prison sentence.
Widow Rose O’Donnell, 78, was struck by a car on a pedestrian crossing on Airbles Road, Motherwell, as she walked to a paper shop.
Driver Stuart McMillan told police he couldn’t understand how he hadn’t seen her as she crossed the road.
(Image: EKN)
McMillan, 41, of Shaw Drive, Hamilton, appeared at the town’s Sheriff Court on Tuesday and admitted causing death by careless driving on September 15, 2018.
He was placed under supervision for a year and must attend a programme for traffic offenders. He was also banned from driving for a year.
Ruth Ross-Davie, prosecuting, said Mrs O’Donnell, who lived with her son in Avon Street, Motherwell, died in hospital three days after the collision.
She was crossing the dual carriageway, where the speed limit is 30mph, when she was hit by McMillan’s Nissan Qashqai around 11.25am.
Ms Ross-Davie told the court the accused had a clear view of the crossing as he approached. The lights were at green, but McMillan should have been able to slow and let Mrs O’Donnell finish crossing the road.
The prosecutor said: “Mrs O’Donnell was walking towards the central reservation when she was struck by the wing mirror of the accused’s vehicle. She fell to the ground. McMillan and the driver behind him stopped.
“She was taken to Wishaw General Hospital with injuries to her leg and face. These were serious but not life-threatening. She was then transferred to Glasgow Royal Infirmary for surgery, but that led to cardiac arrest and she died on September 18.
“Mrs O’Donnell had been in frail health and the trauma of the necessary surgery proved fatal to her.
“I have been asked by next of kin to say the impact of their mother’s death is impossible to put into words. She was a very dearly loved mother who is badly missed.”
McMillan, whose 13-year-old daughter was in the car, gave a negative breath test and told a police officer: “I don’t understand how I didn’t see her.”
The prosecutor added: “He was in the right hand lane and focused on turning right. He didn’t see Mrs O’Donnell approaching from the left.”
Defence agent Jackson Bateman said McMillan was grateful for a letter from the family which made clear they bore no animosity towards him.
Passing sentence, Sheriff Millar expressed his sympathy to the dead woman’s family.
He said the level of carelessness shown by the driver was “minimal” and told McMillan: “Your failure was not to notice the lady crossing from your left when you were concentrating on a right hand turn. You have a good driving record with no convictions.
“You expressed remorse at the time and it’s clear from background reports what effect this has had on you and your family, particularly your daughter who was a passenger in your car. I’m satisfied a community-based disposal is appropriate in the circumstances.”


thedailyrecord--2020-01-10--Woman six times over the limit swerved about on M80, Perth Sheriff Court hears

A woman was caught while almost six times the drink drive limit trying to drive up Scotland ’ s deadliest road .
Perth Sheriff Court was told that another driver had to brake suddenly to avoid smashing into Sarah Blackie ’ s car when she “ undertook ” a line of traffic queuing behind a goods vehicle .
She was then seen swerving from lane to lane and a concerned motorist filmed her as she later almost collided with the central reservation .
When police signalled her to stop on the outskirts of Perth , more than 30 miles into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alcohol , was slurring her words and was “ speaking erratically and not making sense.
” Later tests showed she had been behind the wheel on the M80 , one of Scotland ’ s busiest motorways , and the A9 , the worst for fatal crashes last year , with 122 microgrammes of alcohol on her breath .
The 33-year-old was told by Sheriff Keith O ’ Mahony : “ You are absolutely on the cusp of a custodial sentence in respect of these offences.
” He said it was “ sheer luck @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the High Court on more serious charges .
But he had been “ persuaded ” he could deal with her short of sending her to prison , despite a previous conviction for drink/driving in 2016 .
Blackie , of Ochilview Square , Bathgate , was disqualified for five years and will have to re-sit the extended test before she can drive again .
She will also have to complete a “ high end ” community payback order .
That will involve 300 hours of unpaid work , to be carried out within @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be supervised by a social worker for the next two years .
If she failed to comply with any of these requirements , there would be “ little option to custody.
” Her lawyer , David Sinclair , explained that she had a “ fleeting notion ” to drive all the way up the 269-mile long A9 .
But he added : “ A high reading such as this - and on a road such was this - is a recipe for disaster.
” The accused admitted driving her father ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take evasive action on the M80 , between Stirling and the Keir Roundabout , Dunblane , and on the A9 , near to Balhaldie Services , and the A85 at Perth , on August 4 , 2019 .
She also pled guilty to driving with 122 microgrammes of alcohol on her breath , in excess of the maximum 22 .
Depute fiscal Mairi Graham said one of the vehicles queuing behind the goods vehicle had to carry out “ emergency ” braking as Blackie ’ s car undertook the line of traffic .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ watch at Broxden , on the outskirts of Perth .
About half an hour later , she was seen on a slip road and signalled to drive into a car park .
Mr Sinclair said : “ She has been troubled with alcohol for a number of years.
” She had subsequently suffered nightmares as she reflected on the possible consequences of her actions and the effect a jail term would have on her family .

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A woman was caught while almost six times the drink drive limit trying to drive up Scotland’s deadliest road.
Perth Sheriff Court was told that another driver had to brake suddenly to avoid smashing into Sarah Blackie’s car when she “undertook” a line of traffic queuing behind a goods vehicle.
She was then seen swerving from lane to lane and a concerned motorist filmed her as she later almost collided with the central reservation.
When police signalled her to stop on the outskirts of Perth, more than 30 miles into her trip, she was smelling of alcohol, was slurring her words and was “speaking erratically and not making sense.”
Later tests showed she had been behind the wheel on the M80, one of Scotland’s busiest motorways, and the A9, the worst for fatal crashes last year, with 122 microgrammes of alcohol on her breath.
The 33-year-old was told by Sheriff Keith O’Mahony: “You are absolutely on the cusp of a custodial sentence in respect of these offences.”
He said it was “sheer luck” the mother-of-three had not ended up in the High Court on more serious charges. But he had been “persuaded” he could deal with her short of sending her to prison, despite a previous conviction for drink/driving in 2016.
Blackie, of Ochilview Square, Bathgate, was disqualified for five years and will have to re-sit the extended test before she can drive again.
She will also have to complete a “high end” community payback order.
That will involve 300 hours of unpaid work, to be carried out within the next six months, and she will be supervised by a social worker for the next two years.
If she failed to comply with any of these requirements, there would be “little option to custody.”
Her lawyer, David Sinclair, explained that she had a “fleeting notion” to drive all the way up the 269-mile long A9.
But he added: “A high reading such as this - and on a road such was this - is a recipe for disaster.”
The accused admitted driving her father’s car dangerously and causing other motorists to take evasive action on the M80, between Stirling and the Keir Roundabout, Dunblane, and on the A9, near to Balhaldie Services, and the A85 at Perth, on August 4, 2019.
She also pled guilty to driving with 122 microgrammes of alcohol on her breath, in excess of the maximum 22.
Depute fiscal Mairi Graham said one of the vehicles queuing behind the goods vehicle had to carry out “emergency” braking as Blackie’s car undertook the line of traffic.
The police were alerted and they kept watch at Broxden, on the outskirts of Perth.
About half an hour later, she was seen on a slip road and signalled to drive into a car park. Mr Sinclair said: “She has been troubled with alcohol for a number of years.”
She had subsequently suffered nightmares as she reflected on the possible consequences of her actions and the effect a jail term would have on her family.


thedailyrecord--2020-01-10--Steady rise in patient transfers from Perth Royal Infirmary

The number of patients being transferred from Perth Royal Infirmary ’ s A & E department to other hospitals for treatment has risen every year for the last seven years .
Figures released by NHS Tayside in response to a Freedom of Information request show 1028 people were sent elsewhere for urgent care in 2019 compared to just 377 in 2013 .
Mid Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser , whose staff asked for the figures , said the increase suggests PRI lacks enough specialist staff to treat the seriously injured .
The Scottish Conservative said : “ This information @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a while – that there are not sufficient specialist medical staff at PRI so when many patients arrive at the A & E unit they often end up having to be taken to Ninewells Hospital .
“ It also suggests that there has been a downgrading of services at PRI , an issue I have raised before on numerous occasions.
” But an NHS Tayside spokesperson countered : “ The figures presented compare services from 2010 to today and it must be stressed that over the past 10 years , as people would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have advanced in line with new technologies and the availability of new procedures .
“ Patient pathways have changed to ensure people are seen at the right place and the right time by the right person for their condition .
“ The A & E department at PRI is open 24-hours-a-day and , as has been the case for many years , major trauma and more specialist and complex cases are taken to Ninewells Hospital , or other units , to ensure access to specialist care and treatment .
When this is necessary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to their local community as soon as their condition allows.
” The spokesperson added : “ PRI is a vital site for NHS Tayside and clinical teams are right now implementing plans which will see our doctors and surgeons carry out even more operations at PRI .
“ A new centre of excellence for planned surgery will be established at the hospital meaning more people will have their treatment at the Perth site in the future .
“ A wide range of services are already provided at PRI , with more being planned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the hospital has been the introduction of a new urology one-stop clinic where patients from across Tayside can have tests such as biopsies on the same day as their consultation , reducing the need for multiple hospital visits .
“ This continuing development of services – and an increase in staff who are able to carry out more specialist procedures – demonstrates a clear commitment and significant investment into the PRI site by NHS Tayside .
”

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The number of patients being transferred from Perth Royal Infirmary’s A&E department to other hospitals for treatment has risen every year for the last seven years.
Figures released by NHS Tayside in response to a Freedom of Information request show 1028 people were sent elsewhere for urgent care in 2019 compared to just 377 in 2013.
Mid Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser, whose staff asked for the figures, said the increase suggests PRI lacks enough specialist staff to treat the seriously injured.
The Scottish Conservative said: “This information confirms what my suspicions have been for a while – that there are not sufficient specialist medical staff at PRI so when many patients arrive at the A&E unit they often end up having to be taken to Ninewells Hospital.
“It also suggests that there has been a downgrading of services at PRI, an issue I have raised before on numerous occasions.”
But an NHS Tayside spokesperson countered: “The figures presented compare services from 2010 to today and it must be stressed that over the past 10 years, as people would rightly expect, health services and treatments have advanced in line with new technologies and the availability of new procedures.
“Patient pathways have changed to ensure people are seen at the right place and the right time by the right person for their condition.
“The A&E department at PRI is open 24-hours-a-day and, as has been the case for many years, major trauma and more specialist and complex cases are taken to Ninewells Hospital, or other units, to ensure access to specialist care and treatment. When this is necessary, patients will return to PRI or to their local community as soon as their condition allows.”
The spokesperson added: “PRI is a vital site for NHS Tayside and clinical teams are right now implementing plans which will see our doctors and surgeons carry out even more operations at PRI.
“A new centre of excellence for planned surgery will be established at the hospital meaning more people will have their treatment at the Perth site in the future.
“A wide range of services are already provided at PRI, with more being planned.
“The most recent addition to the hospital has been the introduction of a new urology one-stop clinic where patients from across Tayside can have tests such as biopsies on the same day as their consultation, reducing the need for multiple hospital visits.
“This continuing development of services – and an increase in staff who are able to carry out more specialist procedures – demonstrates a clear commitment and significant investment into the PRI site by NHS Tayside.”


thedailyrecord--2020-01-10--Sleazy teacher avoids jail after admitting making crude comments to pupils

A sleazy teacher who admitted making crude and inappropriate comments to nine pupils avoided jail this week .
Nat McMullen left the girls , aged 12 to 16 , “ extremely uncomfortable ” while working as a maths teacher at a school in Glasgow ’ s east end .
The 70 year-old made remarks such as wanting to pay to look up a teenager ’ s skirt and also pinned another girl up against a wall .
Glasgow Sheriff Court heard some broke into tears because of his conduct .
McMullen returned to the dock having pled guilty to conducting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ making gestures , uttering comments of a sexual nature and committing a breach of the peace .
His lawyer claimed McMullen , of Hamilton , had been “ trying to build a rapport ” with pupils to get “ street credibility ” .
Sheriff Alan Findlay told the shamed OAP : “ I am a bit disappointed in your attitude , but I will deal with this with a supervision order.
” The sheriff imposed the two-year community payback order which will see McMullen monitored by social workers .
He was also placed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the same period of time .
The court earlier heard how McMullen retired in 2007 before returning to work in 2014 .
He told a 16-year-old girl in front of her class : “ I would pay 20 quid to look up your skirt.
” McMullen also pretended to spank another girl and pinned a third girl against a wall .
He suggested to a female pupil who was late to class that she should sit on his knee , which made her feel “ extremely uncomfortable.
” McMullen cornered a 12-year-old girl @ @ @ @ @ @ @ touched her hip with his left hand to restrain her .
In a police interview , the girl said : “ I felt petrified as teachers don ’ t put their hands on me .
“ I wanted to move away from the wall and he wouldn ’ t let me move at all and that ’ s when I started crying as I got a fright and I froze.
” A support teacher said McMullen made other inappropriate comments to girls such as “ Who wants to be my girlfriend ?
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take off her shirt in one of his maths classes .
He also quizzed the girl where she bought her underwear .
A 15-year-old pupil reported McMullen came from behind and squeezed her .
He further said to one girl “ you fancy me ” and asked another if she had a “ love letter ” for him .
A number of complaints were made by sickened pupils and parents .
McMullen was quizzed , and claimed he felt “ unwell ” before later resigning .
Nicholas Nimmo , defending , told the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ build a rapport and get street credibility .
“ He was using the language that the pupils were using in the classroom .
“ Part of his way of dealing with it was by the way of humour .
”

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A sleazy teacher who admitted making crude and inappropriate comments to nine pupils avoided jail this week.
Nat McMullen left the girls, aged 12 to 16, “extremely uncomfortable” while working as a maths teacher at a school in Glasgow’s east end.
The 70 year-old made remarks such as wanting to pay to look up a teenager’s skirt and also pinned another girl up against a wall. Glasgow Sheriff Court heard some broke into tears because of his conduct.
McMullen returned to the dock having pled guilty to conducting himself in a disorderly manner, repeatedly making gestures, uttering comments of a sexual nature and committing a breach of the peace. His lawyer claimed McMullen, of Hamilton, had been “trying to build a rapport” with pupils to get “street credibility”.
Sheriff Alan Findlay told the shamed OAP: “I am a bit disappointed in your attitude, but I will deal with this with a supervision order.”
The sheriff imposed the two-year community payback order which will see McMullen monitored by social workers. He was also placed on the sex offenders’ list for the same period of time.
The court earlier heard how McMullen retired in 2007 before returning to work in 2014.
He told a 16-year-old girl in front of her class: “I would pay 20 quid to look up your skirt.”
McMullen also pretended to spank another girl and pinned a third girl against a wall.
He suggested to a female pupil who was late to class that she should sit on his knee, which made her feel “extremely uncomfortable.”
McMullen cornered a 12-year-old girl in a corridor and at one point touched her hip with his left hand to restrain her.
In a police interview, the girl said: “I felt petrified as teachers don’t put their hands on me.
“I wanted to move away from the wall and he wouldn’t let me move at all and that’s when I started crying as I got a fright and I froze.”
A support teacher said McMullen made other inappropriate comments to girls such as “Who wants to be my girlfriend?”
A 14-year-old was asked by McMullen to take off her shirt in one of his maths classes. He also quizzed the girl where she bought her underwear.
A 15-year-old pupil reported McMullen came from behind and squeezed her.
He further said to one girl “you fancy me” and asked another if she had a “love letter” for him.
A number of complaints were made by sickened pupils and parents.
McMullen was quizzed, and claimed he felt “unwell” before later resigning.
Nicholas Nimmo, defending, told the court: “He was trying to build a rapport and get street credibility.
“He was using the language that the pupils were using in the classroom.
“Part of his way of dealing with it was by the way of humour.”


thedailyrecord--2020-01-10--Dismay at Stagecoach tycoon Dame Ann Gloag’s proposals for estate near Dunblane

Opposition has emerged over plans by Stagecoach tycoon Dame Ann Gloag and Active Stirling to create an outward bound centre on her estate near Dunblane .
Around 120 people concerned about the proposal for the Glassingall Estate – which includes the construction of 135 chalets as part of a residential activity centre – joined a guided walk last Saturday there .
It follows public consultation events held in Dunblane and Kinbuck in October .
During the walk , organised by Glassingall Residents Association , walkers from Glassingall , Kinbuck , Ashfield , Braco and Dunblane learned about places of interest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Roman road and sites associated with the Battle of Sheriffmuir ( 1715 ) .
Pete Bicheno , of Glassingall Residents Association , who lives at North Lodge on the estate , said : “ The people who took part in the walk are concerned about the impact of these plans .
“ Such a development will cause upset to people living in the Glassingall area .
“ I feel these 135 chalets will be to the detriment of the environment and the history of the Glassingall area .
“ Each chalet could accommodate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two cars .
“ Vehicles will be coming in and out .
It could create a traffic problem .
“ It would be a massive development that would not fit with the history and landscape of the area.
” Bridge of Allan and Dunblane councillor Alastair Majury said this week : “ I was pleased to learn that the walk was well attended by local residents , with over 100 people learning a little about what makes this area so important and unique .
“ I would like to thank Pete Bicheno for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to everyone involved in making the morning walk such a success .
“ The development proposal for this site leaves many questions unanswered .
“ Given the local and international historical significance of this site , is this really the best place for over 100 holiday homes ?
” Among those taking part in last Saturday ’ s walk was retired Stirling University lecturer Dr Alastair Mann who told walkers about the history of the Glassingall Estate .
He said : “ The estate dates back almost 2000 years .
The world ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Glassingall .
“ This connected Rome to the Roman fortress at Inchtuthill .
“ It is testament to Roman engineering that the road remained in use for the next 1700 years .
“ We have uncovered an 18th century map that shows that the Jacobite army marched along this road on the eve of the Battle of Sheriffmuir in 1715 .
“ It was in the Glassingall Estate that they camped on either side of the road before the battle.
” A Proposal of Application Notice ( “ PAN ” ) had been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Glassingall Estate Limited in partnership with Active Stirling .
At that time Ann Gloag , who is donating the land to Active Stirling , said : “ The proposals will bring back life and economic activity to the idyllic grounds of the Glassingall Estate creating much needed rural jobs and providing a unique destination that will allow all its visitors to escape from the cities and explore this beautiful part of Scotland.
” Active Stirling chief executive Andrew Bain said : “ We see this as a great opportunity to further develop our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opportunities for those in the Stirling area.
” Click here for more news and sport from the Stirling area .

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Opposition has emerged over plans by Stagecoach tycoon Dame Ann Gloag and Active Stirling to create an outward bound centre on her estate near Dunblane.
Around 120 people concerned about the proposal for the Glassingall Estate – which includes the construction of 135 chalets as part of a residential activity centre – joined a guided walk last Saturday there.
It follows public consultation events held in Dunblane and Kinbuck in October.
During the walk, organised by Glassingall Residents Association, walkers from Glassingall, Kinbuck, Ashfield, Braco and Dunblane learned about places of interest on the route – which included a Roman road and sites associated with the Battle of Sheriffmuir (1715).
Pete Bicheno, of Glassingall Residents Association, who lives at North Lodge on the estate, said: “The people who took part in the walk are concerned about the impact of these plans.
“Such a development will cause upset to people living in the Glassingall area.
“I feel these 135 chalets will be to the detriment of the environment and the history of the Glassingall area.
“Each chalet could accommodate up to six people requiring at least two cars.
“Vehicles will be coming in and out. It could create a traffic problem.
“It would be a massive development that would not fit with the history and landscape of the area.”
Bridge of Allan and Dunblane councillor Alastair Majury said this week: “I was pleased to learn that the walk was well attended by local residents, with over 100 people learning a little about what makes this area so important and unique.
“I would like to thank Pete Bicheno for giving me a guided tour, and to everyone involved in making the morning walk such a success.
“The development proposal for this site leaves many questions unanswered.
“Given the local and international historical significance of this site, is this really the best place for over 100 holiday homes?”
Among those taking part in last Saturday’s walk was retired Stirling University lecturer Dr Alastair Mann who told walkers about the history of the Glassingall Estate.
He said: “The estate dates back almost 2000 years. The world’s oldest Roman frontier road lies within Glassingall.
“This connected Rome to the Roman fortress at Inchtuthill.
“It is testament to Roman engineering that the road remained in use for the next 1700 years.
“We have uncovered an 18th century map that shows that the Jacobite army marched along this road on the eve of the Battle of Sheriffmuir in 1715.
“It was in the Glassingall Estate that they camped on either side of the road before the battle.” A Proposal of Application Notice (“PAN”) had been submitted to Stirling Council last summer by Glassingall Estate Limited in partnership with Active Stirling.
At that time Ann Gloag, who is donating the land to Active Stirling, said: “The proposals will bring back life and economic activity to the idyllic grounds of the Glassingall Estate creating much needed rural jobs and providing a unique destination that will allow all its visitors to escape from the cities and explore this beautiful part of Scotland.”
Active Stirling chief executive Andrew Bain said: “We see this as a great opportunity to further develop our current outdoor adventure activities and give greater opportunities for those in the Stirling area.”
Click here for more news and sport from the Stirling area.


thedailyrecord--2020-01-10--New Year's Day rescue on Perthshire hillside

Tayside Mountain Rescue Team ( TMRT ) responded to three separate incidents as its volunteers weathered the holiday peak time for callouts over the first week of 2020 .
The group is made up of skilled mountaineers , with a base in Blairgowrie and an outpost in Aberfeldy , make up the rescue team .
They had their first alarm on New Year ’ s Day , when a mum with two 10-year-old twins got disorientated in the late afternoon as the light went down the Lochan nan Cat area of Ben Lawers .
Stuart Johnstone , team leader with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Ben Lawers became disorientated in poor visibility and darkness .
“ They were fairly well equipped , they just got caught out .
“ We were able to use emergency location software ( SARLOC ) to find their position .
“ We drove up the hill then went out on foot to meet them and bring them safely and swiftly down.
” The next day , Thursday 2 , a party of five kayakers were reported missing .
Stuart told the PA : “ Late on that afternoon we were called to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to assist Cairngorm MRT in a search for five kayak canoeists .
“ They were all found , safe and well by an airborne search .
“ The party was airlifted back to join others at Dalwhinnie .
“ Then on Sunday , January 6 , we went to get a hill walker who ’ d got separated from the rest of their party around Ben Chonzie , near Crieff .
It was just above Glenturrett and the person had become unsure of their position and disoriented .
This again ended well.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ needing help in three separate incidents across the region was so unusual , given it was the Christmas holidays when many head to the hills and lochs for recreation .
He added : “ It was a slightly elevated number of call outs for one week in winter , but this was the holiday period.
” Tayside Mountain Rescue Team is made up entirely of volunteers who live in the operational area .
Team members are on call 24 hours a day , seven days a week , 365 days a year to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the mountains .
The group is currently fundraising on its Just Giving page to complete the total needed to buy a new operational vehicle to replace an existing machine .
The replacement unit will be the first new one in ten years .

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Tayside Mountain Rescue Team (TMRT) responded to three separate incidents as its volunteers weathered the holiday peak time for callouts over the first week of 2020.
The group is made up of skilled mountaineers, with a base in Blairgowrie and an outpost in Aberfeldy, make up the rescue team.
They had their first alarm on New Year’s Day, when a mum with two 10-year-old twins got disorientated in the late afternoon as the light went down the Lochan nan Cat area of Ben Lawers.
Stuart Johnstone, team leader with TMRT, said: “The family on Ben Lawers became disorientated in poor visibility and darkness.
“They were fairly well equipped, they just got caught out.
“We were able to use emergency location software (SARLOC) to find their position.
“We drove up the hill then went out on foot to meet them and bring them safely and swiftly down.”
The next day, Thursday 2, a party of five kayakers were reported missing.
Stuart told the PA: “Late on that afternoon we were called to Loch Ericht, near Ben Alder, to assist Cairngorm MRT in a search for five kayak canoeists.
“They were all found, safe and well by an airborne search.
“The party was airlifted back to join others at Dalwhinnie.
“Then on Sunday, January 6, we went to get a hill walker who’d got separated from the rest of their party around Ben Chonzie, near Crieff. It was just above Glenturrett and the person had become unsure of their position and disoriented. This again ended well.”
Stuart did not think that nine people needing help in three separate incidents across the region was so unusual, given it was the Christmas holidays when many head to the hills and lochs for recreation.
He added: “It was a slightly elevated number of call outs for one week in winter, but this was the holiday period.”
Tayside Mountain Rescue Team is made up entirely of volunteers who live in the operational area.
Team members are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year to help anyone who is in trouble in the mountains.
The group is currently fundraising on its Just Giving page to complete the total needed to buy a new operational vehicle to replace an existing machine.
The replacement unit will be the first new one in ten years.


thedailyrecord--2020-01-10--Perth dance for older members of the LGBT community

Older members of the local LGBT community will be able to attend a social dance next weekend .
The LGBT Elders Social Dance will be held at Perth Theatre on Saturday , January 18 , and is one of a series of events happening all over the country designed for the senior LGBT community .
The social dance is part of the year-long celebration across Scotland called The Coming Back Out Ball , which includes various social dances and conversations for older people who identify as LGBT .
These social gatherings began in Australia as a way to celebrate a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because of their sexuality .
According to recent figures , many LGBT people fear having to ‘ return to the closet ’ as they get older .
In previous years , older members of the LGBT community may have been fired from their jobs , rejected by their family and friends , and even imprisoned .
This is the first time this community project has been held outside of Australia .
Led by the National Theatre of Scotland , the event in Perth aims to get LGBT people making new friends , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Perthshire Pride has said this is just one of a number of events it is looking forward to being a part of in 2020 .
A spokesperson said : “ We are excited that Perth is hosting an LGBT Elders social dance .
“ It ’ s a fantastic event and is really open to all .
“ We will be attending and we hope that the community of Perthshire and surrounding areas come along .
“ Our next event , in partnership with Get Fit and Fly , is a pole fitness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Spaces are free but limited , so booking is essential .
“ In January we are proud to offer something for everyone in the LGBT community .
“ In the future we would like to expand and organise events in wider Perthshire.
” This comes after Sir Ian McKellen visited Perthshire Pride last year and spoke to the PA about the importance of supporting and celebrating older members of the LGBT community .
The social dance takes place at Perth Theatre from 2pm on Saturday , January 18 and is free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taking part in more of The Coming Back Out Ball social events can register their interest by contacting the National Theatre of Scotland on thecomingbackoutball @ nationaltheatrescotland.com or by calling 0141 227 9013 .

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The weekly email brings you all the latest news from the LGBTQ+ community plus exclusive interviews direct to your inbox
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The weekly email brings you all the latest news from the LGBTQ+ community plus exclusive interviews direct to your inbox
Older members of the local LGBT community will be able to attend a social dance next weekend.
The LGBT Elders Social Dance will be held at Perth Theatre on Saturday, January 18, and is one of a series of events happening all over the country designed for the senior LGBT community.
The social dance is part of the year-long celebration across Scotland called The Coming Back Out Ball, which includes various social dances and conversations for older people who identify as LGBT.
These social gatherings began in Australia as a way to celebrate a generation who had been discriminated for years because of their sexuality.
According to recent figures, many LGBT people fear having to ‘return to the closet’ as they get older.
In previous years, older members of the LGBT community may have been fired from their jobs, rejected by their family and friends, and even imprisoned.
This is the first time this community project has been held outside of Australia.
Led by the National Theatre of Scotland, the event in Perth aims to get LGBT people making new friends, and celebrating the diverse community around them.
Perthshire Pride has said this is just one of a number of events it is looking forward to being a part of in 2020.
A spokesperson said: “We are excited that Perth is hosting an LGBT Elders social dance.
“It’s a fantastic event and is really open to all.
“We will be attending and we hope that the community of Perthshire and surrounding areas come along.
“Perthshire Pride holds regular LGBT social events in Perth.
“Our next event, in partnership with Get Fit and Fly, is a pole fitness taster session on Friday, January 10.
“Spaces are free but limited, so booking is essential.
“In January we are proud to offer something for everyone in the LGBT community.
“In the future we would like to expand and organise events in wider Perthshire.”
This comes after Sir Ian McKellen visited Perthshire Pride last year and spoke to the PA about the importance of supporting and celebrating older members of the LGBT community.
The social dance takes place at Perth Theatre from 2pm on Saturday, January 18 and is free to attend, however those interested in taking part in more of The Coming Back Out Ball social events can register their interest by contacting the National Theatre of Scotland on thecomingbackoutball@nationaltheatrescotland.com or by calling 0141 227 9013.


thedailyrecord--2020-01-10--Perth College UHI has highest drop out rate in Scotland

Staff at the University of the Highlands and Islands have said they remain focused on supporting students , after it was revealed it has the highest drop out rate in Scotland .
New figures show 14 per cent of students at the university , which includes Perth College UHI , drop out before they complete their studies .
This is the highest drop out ratio in Scotland .
Now , the university has said this is because many students choose to leave their course when a job opens up .
It also cited caring commitments as another reason for so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the university has also said it is doing a number of things to improve student retention rates , such as offering pastoral care and personal tutoring , and investing in student accommodation .
A spokesperson for the University of the Highlands and Islands said : “ The University of the Highlands and Islands remains focused on meeting the needs and expectations of a diverse and geographically dispersed student body .
“ We want to support all our students to fulfil their potential .
“ We engage our students in the life and work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of student support functions that help us to encourage students to stay with us and continue successfully with their studies .
“ These include developments in student induction and pastoral care , personal academic tutoring , student representation and investment in student residencies .
“ Widening access to further and higher education , including providing opportunities for students to join us at any point in their studies , is an important reason why the University of the Highlands and Islands is here .
“ This also means that students can choose to leave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ available , because of new caring commitments , or because of a change of location and that is a decision personal to them.
” The spokesperson added : “ However , we also ensure our students are aware of the many ways they can communicate with us so we can help and advise them of all options and forms of support if they are thinking of leaving.
” The drop-out rate at the University of the Highlands and Islands is significantly higher than the Scottish national average of 6.2 per cent , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ per cent .
Nick Hillman , director of the think-tank Higher Education Policy Institute , said : “ Leaving a course early does not always mean someone should not have had a go - sometimes , unexpected life events get in the way of the best-laid plans .
“ Students are more demanding than they used to be and there are more first-in-family students , who know less about what to expect.
” The Scottish Government has also said it is investing in student support , adding there is a record number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deprived backgrounds .

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Staff at the University of the Highlands and Islands have said they remain focused on supporting students, after it was revealed it has the highest drop out rate in Scotland.
New figures show 14 per cent of students at the university, which includes Perth College UHI, drop out before they complete their studies.
This is the highest drop out ratio in Scotland.
Now, the university has said this is because many students choose to leave their course when a job opens up.
It also cited caring commitments as another reason for so many students dropping out.
However, the university has also said it is doing a number of things to improve student retention rates, such as offering pastoral care and personal tutoring, and investing in student accommodation.
A spokesperson for the University of the Highlands and Islands said: “The University of the Highlands and Islands remains focused on meeting the needs and expectations of a diverse and geographically dispersed student body.
“We want to support all our students to fulfil their potential.
“We engage our students in the life and work of the university and have a range of student support functions that help us to encourage students to stay with us and continue successfully with their studies.
“These include developments in student induction and pastoral care, personal academic tutoring, student representation and investment in student residencies.
“Widening access to further and higher education, including providing opportunities for students to join us at any point in their studies, is an important reason why the University of the Highlands and Islands is here.
“This also means that students can choose to leave their course when a suitable job becomes available, because of new caring commitments, or because of a change of location and that is a decision personal to them.”
The spokesperson added: “However, we also ensure our students are aware of the many ways they can communicate with us so we can help and advise them of all options and forms of support if they are thinking of leaving.”
The drop-out rate at the University of the Highlands and Islands is significantly higher than the Scottish national average of 6.2 per cent, and the UK average, which is 6.4 per cent.
Nick Hillman, director of the think-tank Higher Education Policy Institute, said: “Leaving a course early does not always mean someone should not have had a go - sometimes, unexpected life events get in the way of the best-laid plans.
“Students are more demanding than they used to be and there are more first-in-family students, who know less about what to expect.”
The Scottish Government has also said it is investing in student support, adding there is a record number of students in higher education in Scotland from deprived backgrounds.


thedailyrecord--2020-01-10--'Blindfold' budget as PKC hit by UK delay

Perth and Kinross Council may have to set its council tax “ blindfolded ” due to the delay in the next UK budget .
Chancellor Sajid Javid this week confirmed the next budget would not take place until March 11 - the same date councils are legally obliged to set tax rates .
The move could also mean delaying a final budget decision by weeks , or even months , while the local authority waits on its grant settlement from the Scottish Government , which in turn will be waiting on the UK announcement .
Council leader Murray Lyle revealed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meeting with setting the council tax rate as the sole item on the agenda , then hold a budget meeting at a later date when the full allocation is known .
He said : “ It ’ s my understanding that we will have set the council tax rate before we do the rest of the budget .
“ We have a legal obligation to do that by March 11.
” The news has sparked anger among opposition councillors and MSPs .
SNP group leader Cllr Grant Laing told the PA the situation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We will have a special council meeting to set the tax rate without knowing what we have .
It will be like a blindfold budget .
“ It ’ s not an insignificant thing .
It affects people ’ s wages.
” He added : “ The SNP will work with all council officers and other parties to ensure that an orderly process is followed , and that sensible decisions are taken for the residents of Perth and Kinross .
“ I would hope that , given the backlash to the UK Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quickly taken to clarify the financial footing of the Scottish Government , and by extension local authorities.
” John Swinney , MSP for Perthshire North , has blasted the UK Government ’ s budget decision .
He said : “ The UK Government ’ s inability to manage its own budget process will have potentially significant consequences for the people of Perthshire .
“ It is utterly unacceptable that Perth and Kinross Council will have to set their council tax rates without any guidance regarding their financial settlement for the following year .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ rates may be set at a rate either higher than necessary , thus putting an unfair burden on the tax payer , or lower than necessary , thereby endangering vital local services .
“ This is simply another example of the hapless Tories ’ inability to govern and their inattention to the issues that matter to Scotland.
” A spokesperson for Perth and Kinross Council said : “ The council is aware of the recent announcement that the UK Government will set its budget on March 11 , 2020 .
“ At this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Scottish Government and COSLA on the potential implications for the council .
”

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Perth and Kinross Council may have to set its council tax “blindfolded” due to the delay in the next UK budget.
Chancellor Sajid Javid this week confirmed the next budget would not take place until March 11 - the same date councils are legally obliged to set tax rates.
The move could also mean delaying a final budget decision by weeks, or even months, while the local authority waits on its grant settlement from the Scottish Government, which in turn will be waiting on the UK announcement.
Council leader Murray Lyle revealed the council would meet for a special meeting with setting the council tax rate as the sole item on the agenda, then hold a budget meeting at a later date when the full allocation is known.
He said: “It’s my understanding that we will have set the council tax rate before we do the rest of the budget.
“We have a legal obligation to do that by March 11.”
The news has sparked anger among opposition councillors and MSPs.
SNP group leader Cllr Grant Laing told the PA the situation is unprecedented.
He said: “We will have a special council meeting to set the tax rate without knowing what we have. It will be like a blindfold budget.
“It’s not an insignificant thing. It affects people’s wages.”
He added: “The SNP will work with all council officers and other parties to ensure that an orderly process is followed, and that sensible decisions are taken for the residents of Perth and Kinross.
“I would hope that, given the backlash to the UK Government’s budget timetable, steps are quickly taken to clarify the financial footing of the Scottish Government, and by extension local authorities.”
John Swinney, MSP for Perthshire North, has blasted the UK Government’s budget decision.
He said: “The UK Government’s inability to manage its own budget process will have potentially significant consequences for the people of Perthshire.
“It is utterly unacceptable that Perth and Kinross Council will have to set their council tax rates without any guidance regarding their financial settlement for the following year.
“As a result, council tax rates may be set at a rate either higher than necessary, thus putting an unfair burden on the tax payer, or lower than necessary, thereby endangering vital local services.
“This is simply another example of the hapless Tories’ inability to govern and their inattention to the issues that matter to Scotland.”
A spokesperson for Perth and Kinross Council said: “The council is aware of the recent announcement that the UK Government will set its budget on March 11, 2020.
“At this time we are awaiting further information from the Scottish Government and COSLA on the potential implications for the council.”


thedailyrecord--2020-01-10--Northern Ireland assembly returns as Sinn Fein and DUP back new powersharing deal

Powersharing is returning to Northern Ireland after Sinn Fein joined the DUP in backing a deal to re-enter devolved government together .
Sinn Fein President Mary Lou McDonald said a draft agreement tabled by the UK and Irish governments provided a basis to resurrect parliamentary institutions that have been down for three years .
The Assembly will sit once again at 1pm on Saturday - a plenary session that will see the election of a DUP First Minister and Sinn Fein Deputy First Minister along with a team of ministerial colleagues .
The SDLP has confirmed it will take up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has yet been confirmation whether the Ulster Unionists and Alliance Party will also take seats in the executive , with both parties still engaged in internal discussions .
The wide-ranging deal , which was published by the governments on Thursday night , contains compromise solutions to the vexed disputes at the heart of the 36-month powersharing impasse , such as legislative provisions for Irish language speakers .
It will also be accompanied by what the UK Government has promised will be a major investment package .
`` We now have the basis to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for that , '' said Ms McDonald , making the landmark announcement in Parliament Buildings in Belfast .
The move , which came after a day of internal deliberations by the republican party , followed a similar announcement by DUP leader Arlene Foster on Thursday night .
The sign-off of both leaders was vital , as peace process structures mean a ministerial executive can only function with the inclusion of the largest unionist party and largest nationalist party in the region .
Northern Ireland Secretary Julian Smith , who helped broker the deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , welcomed confirmation that devolution would return .
He tweeted : `` A devolved government can now start delivering the reforms needed in our public services .
After three years , it 's time to get back to work - for the people of Northern Ireland .
# StormontDeal . ''
Foster , who has experienced a turbulent number of years at the helm of the party , is now set to return as Northern Ireland 's First Minister .
She conceded there were parts of the deal that would be challenging for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But overall and on the whole I feel that it 's a fair and balanced deal and that 's why we were able to recommend it last night to our party officers and to the elected representatives , '' she said .
`` I think people will note that whilst there is a recognition of the facilitation of Irish language , there is also very much a recognition of those of us who are Ulster British and live here in Northern Ireland as well , and there is many mechanisms to strengthen the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the deal from the Orange Order and hard-line voices within Unionism , such as Traditional Unionist Voice leader Jim Allister .
`` I think if anybody reads the agreement they will see that it is a fair and balanced deal , '' she said .
McDonald , flanked by Sinn Fein 's likely Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill , said the executive faced many challenges , including the impact of Brexit and austerity .
`` But the biggest and most significant challenge will be ensuring we have genuine powersharing built on equality @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
`` I believe that the powersharing government can work .
That requires everyone to step up .
Sinn Fein 's commitment is to do all in our power to make this happen . ''
McDonald responded to those Irish language activists disappointed with provisions outlined in the deal .
She insisted the New Decade , New Approach agreement was only a start , predicting that more gains for language would come in the future .
`` I would say to Irish language activists take heart from the fact that this is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first time we have official recognition , '' she said .
The republican leader also insisted Sinn Fein was `` committed '' to Irish reunification efforts and to make sure all people across the north and south divide enjoyed the same rights .
SDLP leader Colum Eastwood said it was time to get down to work and deliver for the public .
`` We have had big commitments from the two governments and other parties to ensure that the things that we are concerned about actually get done in this executive , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we have taken the decision , as a party , to go into government to make sure that we can deliver for the people we are concerned about .
`` We will go in , probably sceptically , but we will go in and we will do our best to deliver for the public . ''
Government funding is set to help tackle a host of acute problems facing a public sector that has been floundering amid the governance vacuum .
One of the most high-profile of those is an industrial dispute in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nurses again walk out on strike .
Under the terms of the deal , the new executive will also take action to reduce spiralling hospital waiting lists ; extend mitigation payments for benefit claimants hit by welfare reforms ; increase the number of police officers on the beat ; and resolve an industrial dispute involving teachers .
The last DUP/Sinn Fein-led coalition government collapsed in January 2017 over a row about a botched green energy scheme .
That row subsequently widened to take in more traditional wrangles on matters such as the Irish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Troubles .
Coveney said history has been made .
Speaking to reporters in Dublin after Sinn Fein backed the deal , he said : `` History is being made today .
`` We now have confirmation from the two largest parties in Northern Ireland that they both are committed to re-entering an executive and establishing a functioning Stormont again .
`` Of course , that is not the end of the story as we want this to be an all-party executive so I hope that the Alliance Party and SDLP will also be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ DUP in that new executive .
`` We hope that it may be possible that executive will be formed tomorrow but if not tomorrow , certainly Monday and to build on the momentum that is being created in the past 24 hours so that people can see positive political activity , people working together and setting an example and signal of positivity and show that politics in Northern Ireland can be a force for good and brings people together . ''

reporters@dailyrecord.co.uk (David Young, Rebecca Black, Michael McHugh)

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Powersharing is returning to Northern Ireland after Sinn Fein joined the DUP in backing a deal to re-enter devolved government together.
Sinn Fein President Mary Lou McDonald said a draft agreement tabled by the UK and Irish governments provided a basis to resurrect parliamentary institutions that have been down for three years.
The Assembly will sit once again at 1pm on Saturday - a plenary session that will see the election of a DUP First Minister and Sinn Fein Deputy First Minister along with a team of ministerial colleagues.
The SDLP has confirmed it will take up its entitlement to one ministry.
There has yet been confirmation whether the Ulster Unionists and Alliance Party will also take seats in the executive, with both parties still engaged in internal discussions.
The wide-ranging deal, which was published by the governments on Thursday night, contains compromise solutions to the vexed disputes at the heart of the 36-month powersharing impasse, such as legislative provisions for Irish language speakers. It will also be accompanied by what the UK Government has promised will be a major investment package.
(Image: Getty Images)
"We now have the basis to restore powersharing, and we're up for that," said Ms McDonald, making the landmark announcement in Parliament Buildings in Belfast.
The move, which came after a day of internal deliberations by the republican party, followed a similar announcement by DUP leader Arlene Foster on Thursday night.
The sign-off of both leaders was vital, as peace process structures mean a ministerial executive can only function with the inclusion of the largest unionist party and largest nationalist party in the region.
Northern Ireland Secretary Julian Smith, who helped broker the deal alongside Irish Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney, welcomed confirmation that devolution would return.
He tweeted: "A devolved government can now start delivering the reforms needed in our public services. After three years, it's time to get back to work - for the people of Northern Ireland. #StormontDeal."
Foster, who has experienced a turbulent number of years at the helm of the party, is now set to return as Northern Ireland's First Minister.
(Image: Getty Images)
She conceded there were parts of the deal that would be challenging for the people that she represents.
"But overall and on the whole I feel that it's a fair and balanced deal and that's why we were able to recommend it last night to our party officers and to the elected representatives," she said.
"I think people will note that whilst there is a recognition of the facilitation of Irish language, there is also very much a recognition of those of us who are Ulster British and live here in Northern Ireland as well, and there is many mechanisms to strengthen the union."
Foster responded to criticism of the deal from the Orange Order and hard-line voices within Unionism, such as Traditional Unionist Voice leader Jim Allister.
"I think if anybody reads the agreement they will see that it is a fair and balanced deal," she said.
McDonald, flanked by Sinn Fein's likely Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill, said the executive faced many challenges, including the impact of Brexit and austerity.
"But the biggest and most significant challenge will be ensuring we have genuine powersharing built on equality, respect and integrity," she said.
(Image: PA)
"I believe that the powersharing government can work. That requires everyone to step up. Sinn Fein's commitment is to do all in our power to make this happen."
McDonald responded to those Irish language activists disappointed with provisions outlined in the deal.
She insisted the New Decade, New Approach agreement was only a start, predicting that more gains for language would come in the future.
"I would say to Irish language activists take heart from the fact that this is now a historic moment because for the first time we have official recognition," she said.
The republican leader also insisted Sinn Fein was "committed" to Irish reunification efforts and to make sure all people across the north and south divide enjoyed the same rights.
SDLP leader Colum Eastwood said it was time to get down to work and deliver for the public.
"We have had big commitments from the two governments and other parties to ensure that the things that we are concerned about actually get done in this executive," he said.
"That's why we have taken the decision, as a party, to go into government to make sure that we can deliver for the people we are concerned about.
"We will go in, probably sceptically, but we will go in and we will do our best to deliver for the public."
Government funding is set to help tackle a host of acute problems facing a public sector that has been floundering amid the governance vacuum.
One of the most high-profile of those is an industrial dispute in the health service which on Friday saw nurses again walk out on strike.
Under the terms of the deal, the new executive will also take action to reduce spiralling hospital waiting lists; extend mitigation payments for benefit claimants hit by welfare reforms; increase the number of police officers on the beat; and resolve an industrial dispute involving teachers.
The last DUP/Sinn Fein-led coalition government collapsed in January 2017 over a row about a botched green energy scheme.
(Image: PA)
That row subsequently widened to take in more traditional wrangles on matters such as the Irish language and the thorny legacy of the Troubles.
Coveney said history has been made. Speaking to reporters in Dublin after Sinn Fein backed the deal, he said: "History is being made today.
"We now have confirmation from the two largest parties in Northern Ireland that they both are committed to re-entering an executive and establishing a functioning Stormont again.
"Of course, that is not the end of the story as we want this to be an all-party executive so I hope that the Alliance Party and SDLP will also be able to join Sinn Fein and the DUP in that new executive.
"We hope that it may be possible that executive will be formed tomorrow but if not tomorrow, certainly Monday and to build on the momentum that is being created in the past 24 hours so that people can see positive political activity, people working together and setting an example and signal of positivity and show that politics in Northern Ireland can be a force for good and brings people together."


thedailyrecord--2020-01-10--Harry Dunn suspect Anne Sacoolas hit with extradition request by UK Government

The Home Office has said it has submitted an extradition request for the suspect charged in connection with the death of teenage motorcyclist Harry Dunn .
Anne Sacoolas was charged with causing the 19-year-old 's death by dangerous driving last month .
Harry died after his motorbike crashed into a car outside RAF Croughton in Northamptonshire on August 27 last year .
The 42-year-old suspect , the wife of a US spy , claimed diplomatic immunity after the collision and was able to return to her home country , sparking an international controversy .
Now , the Home Office has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decision for the US authorities '' after formally submitting the extradition request on Friday .
Confirming the extradition request , a spokesman for the Home Office said : `` Following the Crown Prosecution Service 's charging decision , the Home Office has sent an extradition request to the United States for Anne Sacoolas on charges of causing death by dangerous driving .
`` This is now a decision for the US authorities . ''
Harry 's family have said they are `` pleased '' with the development , adding that they feel it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ justice for Harry '' .
The family have initiated various legal proceedings against the Foreign Office , the US government and Mrs Sacoolas herself after their lawyers disputed the granting of diplomatic immunity .
Reacting to the extradition request on behalf of Harry Dunn 's family , spokesman Radd Seiger told the PA news agency : `` I have learned that the extradition request for Anne Sacoolas has been delivered today to the United States Department of Justice in accordance with the requirements laid out in the treaty between the two countries and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This will not of course bring Harry back , but in the circumstances of all that this family have been through , they are pleased with the development and feel that it is a huge step towards achieving justice for Harry and making good on the promise that they made to him on the night he died that they would secure justice for him .
`` Despite the unwelcome public comments currently emanating from the US administration that Anne Sacoolas will never be returned , Harry 's parents , as victims , will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unfolding , as it must now do , confident in the knowledge that the rule of law will be upheld .
`` They will simply take things one step at a time and not get ahead of themselves .
However , no one , whether diplomat or otherwise , is above the law . ''

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The Home Office has said it has submitted an extradition request for the suspect charged in connection with the death of teenage motorcyclist Harry Dunn.
Anne Sacoolas was charged with causing the 19-year-old's death by dangerous driving last month.
Harry died after his motorbike crashed into a car outside RAF Croughton in Northamptonshire on August 27 last year.
The 42-year-old suspect, the wife of a US spy, claimed diplomatic immunity after the collision and was able to return to her home country, sparking an international controversy.
Now, the Home Office has said the matter is now "a decision for the US authorities" after formally submitting the extradition request on Friday.
(Image: REUTERS)
Confirming the extradition request, a spokesman for the Home Office said: "Following the Crown Prosecution Service's charging decision, the Home Office has sent an extradition request to the United States for Anne Sacoolas on charges of causing death by dangerous driving.
"This is now a decision for the US authorities."
Harry's family have said they are "pleased" with the development, adding that they feel it is a "huge step towards achieving justice for Harry".
The family have initiated various legal proceedings against the Foreign Office, the US government and Mrs Sacoolas herself after their lawyers disputed the granting of diplomatic immunity.
Reacting to the extradition request on behalf of Harry Dunn's family, spokesman Radd Seiger told the PA news agency: "I have learned that the extradition request for Anne Sacoolas has been delivered today to the United States Department of Justice in accordance with the requirements laid out in the treaty between the two countries and I have notified the parents.
(Image: Justice4Harry)
"This will not of course bring Harry back, but in the circumstances of all that this family have been through, they are pleased with the development and feel that it is a huge step towards achieving justice for Harry and making good on the promise that they made to him on the night he died that they would secure justice for him.
"Despite the unwelcome public comments currently emanating from the US administration that Anne Sacoolas will never be returned, Harry's parents, as victims, will simply look forward to the legal process unfolding, as it must now do, confident in the knowledge that the rule of law will be upheld.
"They will simply take things one step at a time and not get ahead of themselves. However, no one, whether diplomat or otherwise, is above the law."