'Get off my land' – fine as Dounreay crofter abuses SEPA officer

Richard Newton resented the presence of officers from the Scottish Environment Protection Agency "on his land" and told one of them where to go.

The officers left the croft at Rowan Cottage, Upper Dounreay, and Newton was subsequently charged.

The 60-year-old admitted having acted in an abusive manner and was fined £200.

Wick Sheriff Court heard on Tuesday that the SEPA officers were advised that there was Covid in the house when they arrived there on February 9 last year and that it would be the accused himself who would have to deal with their inquiry.

Fiscal David Barclay said the officers realised they would not be able to carry out their planned inspection and, as they were leaving, Newton appeared and told one of them to "f **k-off" and "get off my land".

The fiscal added that the accused indicated if they wanted to return, they would have to get in touch with his lawyer.

Solicitor George Mathers said that Newton didn't immediately realise the visitors were SEPA officers.

They had subsequently paid the accused another visit and had gained access without difficulty to the property which was given the all-clear.