milne media

Hols road tragedies

HeadLine: Hols road tragedies

The Mirror, 27/05/2003, p7
by SHAUN MILNE

FIVE people died in a series of separate bank holiday road tragedies.
David Thompson, 52, of Prestonpans, East Lothian, was killed when his
motorbike crashed on the A1 near Berwick.
Another driver died when his car smashed into a tree in Aberdeen.
Cops are probing how a a 29-year-old biker died and his 16-year-old
pillion passenger was injured after a crash at Kirkliston, Midlothian.
A woman cyclist in her 40s died after an accident at the Kings
Roundabout in Edinburgh.
And a 26-year-old man was killed after being hit by a bus on the M80
Glasgow to Stirling motorway.

**

COOK'S OIL BURNER

HeadLine: COOK'S OIL BURNER

The Mirror, 01/07/2003, p22
by SHAUN MILNE

ONE of Scotland's best known restaurants has gone up in flames.
The blaze at Jackson's off the Royal Mile intially sparked fears of
another major disaster in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
Forty firefighters battled into yesterday morning to contain the fire.
The 300-year-old listed building was evacuated as the fire took hold at
7.40pm on Sunday.
It comes just six months after a blaze wreaked havoc in the Old Town,
destroying several buildings in the Cowgate. Fire chiefs said
yesterday's blaze could have been just as serious.
Divisional officer Gavin Dunlop said the characteristics of the Old
Town meant every blaze in the area was treated very seriously.
He said: "The fire started in the kitchen. The chef had put some oil in
the frying pan. When he came back a minute later it was on fire.
"The manager evacuated all the diners so quickly that a £50 note was
left on one table.
"The fire spread up through the floorboards into all the alcoves and it
did have the potential to spread.
"It took us a long, long time to ascertain where it had gone and cut
away and isolate the flames.
"The fire has totally destroyed the kitchen. The damage is really quite
bad."
Sub Officer Norrie Ritchie said: "There are a lot of nooks and crannies
in the Old Town.
The wood is old and dry and catches fire easily travelling up into the
hidden spaces."

**

Family's farewell to Iraq journalist

HeadLine: Family's farewell to Iraq journalist

The Mirror, 23/07/2003, p17
by SHAUN MILNE

A SCOTS journalist shot dead in Iraq after he was mistaken for a US
soldier was laid to rest yesterday.
Hundreds of mourners gathered at Melrose Parish Church in the Borders
to say farewell to 24-year-old Richard Wild.
His parents Robin and Daphne clutched each other during the 50-minute
service.
They had urged Richard not to go to Iraq, but Rev Bruce Neill said: "He
was being true to his own aspirations and was living his life in the
way he chose."

**

ZOO CHIEFS KILL BONGO THE BEAR

HeadLine: ZOO CHIEFS KILL BONGO THE BEAR

The Mirror, 31/07/2003, p18
by SHAUN MILNE

ZOO bosses were yesterday forced to put down kiddies' favourite Bongo
the bear.
Glasgow Zoo confirmed last night that the Asiatic black bear had been
put to sleep - just 24 hours after he was given a temporary reprieve.
Keepers and volunteers at the zoo - which is being forced to close
because of a funding crisis - choked back tears as they heard the news.
And there was also agony at Edinburgh Zoo as an 11-year-old giraffe
suffering from severe arthritis was humanely killed.
Jade was put down on the advice of vets who predicted that her life
would become unbearable.
Bosses at Glasgow Zoo said the mercy killing was in the best interests
of the 28-year-old bear, who was suffering from cancer and the ravages
of age.
Chief executive Roger Edwards said: "The zoo staff, members and
volunteers are, of course, greatly distressed by the news."
Bongo's death comes as under-pressure zoo chiefs try desperately to
find homes for the other animals at the park before it shuts for good.
The zoo was stung by criticism in the Mirror earlier this week after
animal activists claimed homeless animals would have to be be culled.
But the zoo and SSPCA experts are working round the clock to avoid such
a drastic move, and insist that they are "confident" of success.
An SSPCA inspector was present as tragic Bongo breathed his last.
A spokeswoman insisted last night: "Glasgow Zoo will continue its
planned work regarding rehoming of the animals and the continuing care
of the animals.
"We are happy to receive suggestions or introductions regarding
rehoming of animals, which will be assessed carefully at the
appropriate time along with all other re-homing options.
"It is inappropriate at this time to speculate further on this matter.
"At all times, the wellbeing and best interests of the animals are
foremost in everyone's mind at the zoo."
At Edinburgh Zoo, Jade the Rothschild's giraffe had struggled to walk
since developing a painful degenerative disease in her leg joints.
The mum-of-four, who had been at the zoo since 1995, was separated from
her mate Siger and calf Sapphire for the last time early yesterday.
Vets then gave her an anaesthetic before the lethal injection and she
slipped away painlessly.
Head keeper Darren McGarry said: "She will be much missed, but we could
not bear to see her suffering any longer."

**

ROB ROY 'WAS A TRAITOR, SPY AND CONMAN'

HeadLine: ROB ROY 'WAS A TRAITOR, SPY AND CONMAN'

The Mirror, 03/11/2003, p15
by SHAUN MILNE

ROB Roy was a paid spy and a conman, not the Scottish folk hero
portrayed in the history books, it was claimed yesterday.
Professor David Stevenson said the so-called tartan Robin Hood also
betrayed his own side to the English during the Jacobite Rebellion of
1715.
He added: "I was surprised at the extent of his double dealing and
criminality.
"He was a confidence trickster and was very clever at getting people to
take his side. He sells himself as the little man being done down by
the powerful."
Prof Stevenson, St Andrews University emeritus professor of Scottish
history, discovered that cattle drover Rob Roy MacGregor was outlawed
for trying to pull off a swindle.
The historian makes the claims in his book Rob Roy: The Man and the
Myth. He told the Scotland on Sunday newspaper: "I expect the book will
put a few noses out of joint, but I did not intend to denigrate a
national hero when I started my research." He felt some researchers
chose to ignore the negative side of Rob Roy's character.
But James Fraser, tourism chief of Rob Roy country Loch Lomond and the
Trossachs, said: "It was quite common for people to change sides. I
think he was a bit of a rogue, but a good rogue."

**

BABY HERO, AGE 5

HeadLine: BABY HERO, AGE 5

The Mirror, 07/11/2003, p27
by SHAUN MILNE

A FIVE-year-old boy helped his mother deliver a baby she didn't even
know she was expecting.
Connor Young dashed into the bathroom after mum Debbie, 26, collapsed
with contractions.
He helped keep her conscious as baby Courtney arrived, then rang his
gran, who called paramedics.
Debbie said: "He came in and we managed to remove the cord from around
her neck. Connor then rushed to get towels and wrapped his sister in
them. He was a star. We're all very proud of him."
Doctors said Courtney, who weighed 7lb 12oz, was in perfect health.
Debbie, who lives in Irvine, Ayrshire, said she had no idea she was
pregnant. Grandmother Anne Young, 45, added: "We're all very proud of
Connor. He's delighted to have a new sister."

**

THE CRUEL SEA

HeadLine: THE CRUEL SEA

The Mirror, 29/12/2003, p8
by SHAUN MILNE

HOPE was fading last night for two anglers missing in a "horrendous"
storm at sea.
Air and sea rescue crews have been combing 900 square miles of sea from
Montrose to Berwick-upon-Tweed since Saturday.
But the search was yesterday called off for the night, with still no
sign of the lost pair.
It is now two days since the fishermen, believed to be a 34-year-old
and his 16-year-old neighbour, from Grangemouth, Stirlingshire, set off
at 6am.
Launching their 14ft boat from Blackness, West Lothian, relatives say
the pair, who have not been named, planned to get home from the Firth
of Forth by around 4.30pm.
But Forth Coastguard was called in at 7.21pm after they failed to
answer repeated calls to their mobile phone.
Lifeboats were then launched from South Queensferry, near Edinburgh,
and Kinghorn, Fife, in conditions rescuers branded "quite horrendous".
And Coastguard teams from as far as North Berwick, East Lothian, later
joined the search in gale-force winds, along with a Royal Navy
helicopter from Prestwick, in Ayrshire.
Yesterday, Blackness residents said prayers at the parish church for
the anglers' safe return.
But, last night, John Mayston, of Forth Maritime Rescue, said: "The
search has now been called off for the night.
"From being optimistic this morning, our hopes are now fading for them.
It is bitterly cold out there on the water."
Keen sailor Graham Banks, 43, who has regularly tackled the Forth
estuary, said: "The waves are far too rough for a boat that size.
"I have a 16ft boat and I wouldn't consider going out in those
conditions."
Another resident, who did not want to be named, said: "I hope that they
are found alive and well.
"But, with every hour that goes past, the chances of that look less
likely.
"It is freezing here on shore, let alone out there in the middle of the
water with no shelter.
"The wind chill factor is must be well below freezing."
However, Bob Abercrombie, Forth Coastguard watch manager, pledged the
search would continue.

**

Dinky dog Dex is just a wee slip of a thing

HeadLine: Dinky dog Dex is just a wee slip of a thing

The Mirror, 14/03/2002, p31
by SHAUN MILNE

MINI-MUTT Dex can't bring owner Charlie Kinnon his slippers - he's too
small to lift them.
In fact, the three-inch high Yorkshire Terrier fits right inside one of
Charlie's baffies.
Dex weighs nine ounces at eight weeks old, and defied vets by surviving
at all.
Professional breeder Charlie, 53, from Erskine, near Glasgow, had to
give Dex the kiss of life when he was born weighing just one ounce.
Sadly, neither of his two equally-tiny sisters survived.
Determined Dex now struts around the house but Charlie, who has been
breeding the toy dogs for 25 years, said: "He was so tiny when he was
born, I didn't think he'd survive.
"But, after giving him the kiss of life, he seemed fine.
"Even then because he was so small we didn't think he had a chance, but
he is a fighter.
"We used eyedrop tubes to give him milk from his mum Ellie because his
tiny mouth couldn't suckle. He's fine now.
"He eats puppy food mixed with a little milk - a teaspoonful at a time."
"From my experience he is not going to grow much bigger at all.
"We will not be able to take him to the shows as he will be too small
but that will make him even more sought after."
Vet Andrew Coe, from Strathaven, added: "He does seem very small for
his age and it will be interesting to see how he progresses."

**

BLUNDER SKIPPER IS FERRY SORRY..

HeadLine: BLUNDER SKIPPER IS FERRY SORRY..

The Mirror, 09/04/2002, p10
by SHAUN MILNE

A DOZY Scots fishing crew sailed for three hours down the wrong way of
the world's busiest shipping lane.
Skipper George Wood, 44, narrowly missed huge passenger ferries as he
steered the trawler Honeybourne III down the South west traffic lane of
the English Channel.
But, amazingly, they didn't crash into any other vessels - despite
experts saying it was the sea-faring equivalent of driving down the
wrong lane of the M25 motorway.
Yesterday Wood, from Ayr, and boat owner Andrew Scott, 44, from
Dumfries, were hauled before Folkestone magistrates in Kent.
They pleaded guilty to entering a traffic separation zone, travelling
the wrong way and sailing without sufficient charts.
Wood was fined £8,000 plus £3,110 costs and Scott was fined £6,600 and
£3,110 costs.
Last night a Dover Coastguard spokesman said: "It was amazing no one
was hurt.
"He was doing the equivalent of driving the wrong way down the M25 and
was solely responsible.
"It was a very serious breach of the rules."
The court heard how the fishing boat was travelling from Falmouth to
Aberdeen when the drama unfolded last October.
The stunned coastguard contacted the crew to tell them they were going
the wrong way.
But the blundering crew, who said their trawler's electronic chart
system had failed and that it had no back-up charts, carried on in the
same direction for three hours.
The skipper's lawyer, Robert Penrose, said: "My client was reluctant to
turn around into bad weather, so he made a decision which he believed
was correct.
"He decided the safest thing to do was to break the law, cross the
separation zone and steam across the other lane so he could follow the
track he'd already plotted."

**

One in 10 Scots kids on the run by age 16

HeadLine: One in 10 Scots kids on the run by age 16

The Mirror, 23/04/2002, p20
by SHAUN MILNE

A SHOCKING new report shows that one in 10 Scots kids are forced to
flee their homes by the time they are 16.
The Aberlour Child Care Trust, which commissioned the study, found that
7000 youngsters run away from home every year - many after being
subjected to sexual abuse and violence.
A quarter of the kids end up sleeping on the streets, vulnerable to the
dregs of society who prey upon their innocence, dragging them into the
gutters.
The bombshell evidence, in the hard-hitting report Missing Out - also
found that one in six kids who run away end up being physically or
sexually abused.
Aberlour, which is Scotland's largest children's charity, say the
reasons for leaving home include violence, neglect and emotional and
sexual abuse.
They say it is rare for youngsters to run away simply for excitement.
Aberlour chief executive Romy Langeland said: "Our research proves kids
are running away from something rather than running to something."
Andy, 16, from Glasgow, backs up the report's findings. He said: "My
parents had problems with alcohol and when I was 16 my step-dad threw
me out of the house and I ended up sleeping rough."
Another victim Helen, 15, who was sexually abused at the age of 10 by
her mother's boyfriend, said: "I ended up on the streets, sleeping
underneath bridges.
"I didn't know where else to go."

**

PASSENGERS WON'T GET BACK ON TRACK FOR DAYS

HeadLine: PASSENGERS WON'T GET BACK ON TRACK FOR DAYS

The Mirror, 19/06/2002, p4
by SHAUN MILNE

SCOTS rail passengers must wait until at least Monday before train
services are back to normal after a major freight crash.
Rail bosses had to scrap all services on the busy West Coast Main Line
- the main route between Scotland and England - after fourteen wagons
laden with tonnes of timber derailed near the Borders town of Gretna
two days ago.
The driver escaped injury and urgent recovery work to remove wagons and
their loads went on late into last night.
But engineers and safety experts, who have still to assess damage to
tracks, warned it will take most of the weekend to complete the
repairs.
Railtrack and train operators English Welsh and Scottish Railways
(EWS), have already admitted joint liability for the accident at
Quintinshill.
Railtrack said the line and an overhead bridge had been "badly damaged"
in the incident, blamed on a failed axle bearing.
Virgin Rail services have been worst hit by the incident.
ScotRail said they have been forced to suspend their Sleeper services
completely, and are taking no more bookings.
A spokesman said: "It's going to affect Virgin far more than us.
"But the Glasgow to London sleeper service will be affected.
"The southbound sleeper is running around two hours late and the
northbound service around two and half hours late.
"It is regrettable, but we have done all we can to reduce delays. It
will certainly continue like this until the end of the week."
Virgin said it was operating a special timetable and trains were being
diverted via alternate routes.
A spokesman said: "We are operating a shuttle service between Glasgow
and Lockerbie.
"When passengers get to Lockerbie there will be a bus service taking
them to Carlisle. After Carlisle the service should run as normal."
Passengers faced huge disruption yesterday, many being forced to find
alternative routes while others had to endure huge delays as they were
transported by coaches.
Politicians have already called on new Transport Secretary Alistair
Darling to act to improve safety.

**

JUST 18p A WEEK

HeadLine: JUST 18p A WEEK

The Mirror, 19/06/2002, p5
by SHAUN MILNE

A WOMAN who paid £500-a-year National Insurance all her working life
has been told she'll get a pension of just 18p a WEEK.
Ruth Philip, 59, almost burst into tears when her local benefits office
said her annual pension will be £9.36-a-year, instead of the £40-a-week
state pension that she had hoped for.
Her plight, she was told, is a direct result of the "small stamp"
option, which allowed married women to pay at a reduced rate.
But Mrs Philip, of Insch, near Aberdeen, she was never told what a
drastic effect it would have on her.
She said: "I am not greedy but what shall I spend my 18p a week on - a
holiday in Spain perhaps?
"I could have burst into tears when I read the letter. I feel so
helpless.
"It just seems disgusting when you have worked all your life and I'm
sure I'm not the only woman who's going to find herself in this
situation. You feel someone should have told you to pay the larger
stamp."
Until 1977 married women were entitled to pay the reduced rate.
But because Mrs Philip continued to pay the reduced rate, her basic
pension and state earnings related pension (SERPS) amounted to nothing.
Her MP, Lib Dem Malcolm Bruce, has taken up her case but he is not
hopeful of success.
And Nationalist MSP Brian Adam has called on the Government to
investigate if other forms of benefit are available.
He said: "Many ladies seem to have been ill-advised at the time and the
Government ought to look carefully at the situation."
A Benefits Agency spokesman said: "Women who opted to pay the reduced
rate stamp did not make an uninformed choice.
"They gave written notice on a form clearly giving details of what the
decision might mean."

**

TOTS IN CRASH TERROR

HeadLine: TOTS IN CRASH TERROR

The Mirror, 16/07/2002, p8
by SHAUN MILNE

TWO tots cheated death yesterday after a car ploughed into three
generations of the same family.
Five-month-old Amy McCubbin and her two-year-old cousin Dionne Reid
were thrown into the middle of the road to stop them being hit by a car
which had mounted the pavement in Cumnock, Ayrshire.
Graham Bryce, 39, of Dalmellington, Ayrshire, who witnessed the
accident's aftermath said: "It was terrible.
"I saw bodies lying on the ground and a pram in the middle of the road.
A car was up on the verge of the pavement."
The tots' great gran Annie Leith, 72, suffered head injuries and was
rushed to Ayr Hospital following the accident.
Gran Mary Ginnitty, 49, was last night recovering at the hospital after
surgery on her crushed leg. Her condition was described as "serious but
stable".
The driver of the car, who is being questioned by police, escaped
uninjured despite crashing into a lampost.

**

MUMMY POTTER

HeadLine: MUMMY POTTER

The Mirror, 20/09/2002, p1
by SHAUN MILNE & CRAIG MCGILL

MILLIONAIRE Scots author JK Rowling announced some wizard news of her
own last night - she's expecting a new baby.
The former Edinburgh school-teacher from Leith and her husband of nine
months Dr Neil Murray are said to be "delighted" at the news, in a
statement issued last night.
Rowling, 37, who has a nine-year-old daughter Jessica from her first
failed marriage to Portuguese journalist Jorge Arantes, has already
broken the news to her family that she is around three months pregnant.
A spokesman for the couple said: "JK Rowling and Dr Neil Murray are
delighted to confirm that they are expecting a baby in the spring."
Rowling, who has amassed a fortune said to be in the region of
£262million from the sale of her four Harry Potter books, is believed
to be in "very good health".
One pal said last night: "Both she and Neil are over the moon about
this - it just cements their love for each other. It's their own little
bit of magic."
Proud grandfather-to-be Ernest Murray told the Mirror last night: "It's
great news - of course I'll be spoiling the little one when it comes
along."
Rowling, who has properties in both Edinburgh and Perth, married
anaesthetist Neil, 31, in a private ceremony at Killiechassie House in
Perthshire on Boxing Day last year.
The announcement of her news goes a long way to explaining the delay
behind the publication of the fifth in the series of the Potter books
which made her name.
The announcement came on the day she won a court case against another
author trying to rip off the Potter books.
After the court success she said: "This is a large weight which has
been lifted off me. I feel very different today - it's great."

**

RABIES BAT BITE

HeadLine: RABIES BAT BITE

The Mirror, 20/11/2002, p21
by RON MOORE and SHAUN MILNE

A BAT expert was fighting for life last night with suspected rabies
after being bitten by one of the species.
David McRae, a natural history artist and licensed handler of the
protected mammals, was in a hospital isolation ward. His symptoms were
"advanced", involving problems with the brain and nervous system.
The strain of rabies caught from the bat is a neurological illness and
different to the disease carried by dogs and foxes. Last month, after
an incident in Lancashire, environment officials warned of potential
rabies danger from bats in the UK. But yesterday's case is only the
third here. Public health experts said there was minimum risk.
It is thought Mr McRae, of Guthrie, near Forfar, was bitten by the
infected bat several months ago.
He only recently began to show symptoms of the rabies strain, European
Bat Lyssavirus.
He had not been vaccinated. Mr McRae, 55, went into hospital "less than
a month ago" with mild neurological symptoms and he deteriorated.
Dr Dilip Nathwani said the patient at Ninewells hospital, Dundee, was
"extremely ill".
Fever and paralysis are symptoms. Test results are expected today.
Mr McRae worked for Scottish Natural Heritage as a volunteer, caring
for bats.
Public health chief Drew Walker said a simple way to stop infection was
"avoiding handling bats under any circumstances".
Transmission between humans is unheard of. Only two of the 16 bat types
found in the UK have a rabies risk.
A conservationist in Lancashire was bitten by a rabid bat in September,
but she did not become ill.
* ROBERT Prins, 42, got £2,800 in fines and costs at Ipswich yesterday
for smuggling a kitten into Britain from Lithuania for his wife, in
breach of rabies laws.

**

CLUB TYCOON'S HOLS FIRE HELL

HeadLine: CLUB TYCOON'S HOLS FIRE HELL

The Mirror, 10/12/2002, p8
by RON MOORE and SHAUN MILNE

THE Scots property mogul who owns the world-famous Gilded Balloon
comedy venue is on holiday in Thailand, the Mirror can reveal.
Lawyer Forbes Leslie was told of the devastation in a a phone call from
Scotland. But yesterday colleagues said Leslie, 48, a Glasgow-based
solicitor and property expert, would not be cutting his trip short.
Leslie, 48, is a director of Cowgate Arts Limited, the firm which owns
the historic venue and rents it out to the club operators.
He is also head of the Commercial Property Unit at Dallas McMillan. A
spokesman said he had been told of the fire but wasn't "contactable"
and would return to work on Monday.
The famous venue which launched the careers of top comics Eddie Izzard,
Phil Kay and Rhona Cameron could be demolished today.
Last night Karen Koren, director of the Gilded Balloon for 17 years,
said she was "devastated" by the blaze.
Karen, 52, looked over the burned out shell and choked back tears.
She has lost priceless possessions built up from a lifetime working
with some the biggest names in showbiz.
Her priceless collection, including top comedy award trophies, props
and personal mementoes, is not covered by insurance.
Karen said: "I don't know about the future. I have lost everything.
"Phil Kay, Dylan Moran, Bill Bailey - they have all called me. The
director of the Perrier Awards has phoned. The support of people has
been tremendous."
She added: "We have lost comedy awards, including Phil Kay's, as well
as old photographs of people who started out with us before they became
famous. These are the things you can't replace."
Karen has set up a temporary club at the students' union in Teviot
Place.
And she stressed that all the Gilded Balloon's festival commitments
will go ahead.
Karen said: "The show goes on."
A team from Lothian and Borders Fire Brigade will carry out the probe
into the cause of the blaze.
It was the first major incident to be handled by Brian Alloway, the new
Lothian and Borders Firemaster, since his appointment on November 30.

**

A desperate race to save dad and son stranded on Ben Nevis

HeadLine: A desperate race to save dad and son stranded on Ben Nevis

The Mirror, 05/01/2001, p19
by SHAUN MILNE

RESCUERS last night won a desperate race against time to reach a
13-year-old boy stranded more than 3000ft up a mountain with his
badly-injured father.
The pair were stuck above cloud level on Ben Nevis after the terrified
boy's father fell and broke his leg on the so-called "tourist path".
Despite the pain, the man was able to use his mobile phone to alert the
emergency services to the crisis - and give his approximate position.
A Royal Navy helicopter - Rescue 137 - was attempting to land a search
party half way up the 4,406ft mountain in the Great Glen when it was
beaten by poor visibility.
When it was forced to turn back, an RAF mountain rescue team struck out
on foot in treacherous icy conditions - desperate to reach the climbers
before temperatures on Britain's highest peak fell too low.
The helicopter went to refuel at Inverness Airport before making a
second attempt to fly to the rescue scene by another route.
The pair were eventually reached by rescuers who stretchered the
injured man to a lower level before he was helicoptered to hospital.
In Belford Hospital, Fort William yesterday a teenager told of his
lucky escape from the Ben.
Climbers James O'Rourke, 19, and Richard Walder, 17, were caught in a
blizzard. James fell, breaking his leg and both men got stuck in snow.
They couldn't get a telephone signal to contact rescue teams but, by
pure chance, James' mum Margaret decided to ring her son's mobile from
the family home in Barham, Kent.
She managed to get through and James had just enough time to tell her
what had happened before the signal cut out again.
Mrs O'Rourke called rescuers, who located the pair and flew them to
hospital by helicopter .
James said: "Who knows how long it would have been before we were
rescued if mum hadn't managed to get through."

**

INTERNATIONAL RESCUE

HeadLine: INTERNATIONAL RESCUE

The Mirror, 15/02/2001, p4
by SHAUN MILNE

A QUICK-THINKING Scots girl saved the lives of 19 shipwrecked tourists
by text messaging an SOS halfway round the world.
Cool Rebecca Fyfe, 19, from Ayrshire, sparked a huge naval rescue
mission in shark and pirate-infested waters near the Indonesian
paradise of Bali.
A stricken cruise boat was being tossed around during a fierce storm as
12ft high waves threatened to sink them.
But Rebecca grabbed her mobile phone and punched out the message for
help to boyfriend Nick Hodgson in London: "Call the Coastguard - SOS".
Nick, 23, called her back but Rebecca's phone battery was running down
and she couldn't give him their exact location.
But Nick gave the sketchy details to Thames Coastguards, who relayed
the cry for help to their colleagues in Falmouth, Cornwall.
Falmouth alerted rescuers in Australia and then the Indonesians mounted
a full scale rescue operation.
Coastguard Gordon Whatley said Rebecca had saved the lives of the 10
other Britons, _ a New Zealander, an Australian, and six Indonesians on
board.
He said: "Unless she can speak the local language she wouldn't get very
far trying to ring authorities in Indonesia.
"Contacting her boyfriend was the best thing she could have done."
Last night friend Harry Loughlin, who is looking after the family home
in Ballantrae, Ayrshire, was delighted when told Rebecca was safe.
Harry, who served in the Merchant Navy and has travelled around
Indonesia, said: "It is notorious for pirates. We were worried about
bandits."
The boat ran into problems in the Lombok Straits as it travelled
between Sangigi and Mataram, near Bali.
An Indonesian warship had located the yacht last night and were
attempting a rescue but the seas were still too choppy to get close
enough.

**

WALKERS QUIZZED ABOUT DEAD TOT

HeadLine: WALKERS QUIZZED ABOUT DEAD TOT

The Mirror, 19/03/2001, p11
by SHAUN MILNE

DETECTIVES are drafting in an extra six officers to help find the
mother of the dead baby boy found dumped in undergrowth.
Police were yesterday also organising a mailshot of 1,000 homes near to
where the boy's charred body was found.
And over the weekend, uniformed officers quizzed around 100 people
using the path near Edinburgh's Craigmillar housing estate where the
baby's remains were discovered last week.
Det Insp Euan Morrison, who has been leading the investigation into the
baby's death, said: "We believe it is worth talking to everyone who was
on the footpath by Harewood Crescent last weekend.
"We are also delivering around 1,000 letters to householders in the
area in another attempt to keep information coming in."
Police are investigating the possibility that the mother of the
two-day-old boy is a heroin user and tests are being carried out to see
if the baby was born addicted to the drug.
Another theory is that the baby's mum could be a panic-stricken
schoolgirl.
Officers have been in touch with local schools and they are also
widening their search to places outwith the Edinburgh district.

**

GAS BOSSES LET OFF HOOK AFTER FAMILY WIPED OUT

HeadLine: GAS BOSSES LET OFF HOOK AFTER FAMILY WIPED OUT

The Mirror, 19/03/2001, p15
by SHAUN MILNE

RED tape could let gas firm Transco off the hook after a family
perished in a burst pipe blast two years ago.
A report into the tragedy published today reveals that a large
fist-sized hole in the pipe was the source of the gas leak which led to
tragedy.
A spark ignited the fumes, destroying the house in Larkhall,
Lanarkshire, killing Andrew and Jeanette Findlay and their children
Stacey, 13, and Daryl, 11.
It was widely expected Transco would be brought to book but there have
been problems deciding who was responsible for the state of the pipe.
The report, to be sent to the Lord Advocate, will recommend the firm
are only charged with minor technical breaches.
Last night angry local MP Jimmy Hood said: "People in Larkhall want
answers, not explanations that it's too technical to apportion blame."

**

TOT DEATH WOMAN IS KIDDIE BOSS

HeadLine: TOT DEATH WOMAN IS KIDDIE BOSS

The Mirror, 19/03/2001, p20
by SHAUN MILNE

A BLUNDERING social worker blamed for failing to prevent the murder of
a three-year-old girl has been promoted.
Sheila Clingan has been made commissioning and development officer at
Dumfries and Galloway Council.
But the senior post, putting her in charge of risk assessment forms,
has caused unease among staff.
One source said: "Forms are only as effective as the people who fill
them in. It's a waste of time."
SNP deputy justice spokesman Mike Matheson said: "I'd question moving
someone who was criticised to a post where she is looking at policies
around child welfare."
Clingan was part of the social work team that failed to stop little
Kennedy McFarlane being battered to death by her mum's kick-boxer
lover, Thomas Duncan, 33, last May.
It was the culmination of a series of beatings Duncan had handed out to
the "bright and vivacious" tot.
The Scottish Mirror told last month how a report into the killing
criticised the department for not acting on a series of warning signs.
A post-mortem revealed injuries dating back weeks but the most damning
information was that neighbours and nursery staff raised fears for her
safety at least three times.
Despite the tot's admission to hospital with serious eye injuries and
drug ingestion last year, social workers failed to act.
Dr Helen Hammond, of West Lothian Healthcare NHS Trust, carried out a
probe after Kenneydy's death which criticised social workers.
She said: "No-one put all the pieces of the puzzle together creating a
total picture of escalating harm.
"It is my conclusion that although her violent death could not have
been accurately predicted - it could have been prevented."
A council spokesman confirmed Clingan's new job.
He added: "She has no final decision making powers."

**

Marching to drugs war

HeadLine: Marching to drugs war

The Mirror, 02/04/2001, p13
by SHAUN MILNE

THOUSANDS of Scots took to the streets in a massive show of defiance
against the scourge of drugs yesterday.
All of Scotland's major political leaders joined the march from
Glasgow's Blythswood Square for an afternoon rally at Glasgow Green.
Around 15,000 to 20,000 people took part, waving placards showing drugs
victims as they listened to speakers, including Chancellor Gordon
Brown.
He said: "This really is a demonstration of our determination and, I
believe, the determination of the whole of Scotland, to expose and work
to eradicate an evil responsible for half our crime.
"Drug crime costs us £4billion a year, terrorises pensioners and lays
young lives to waste."
He announced the Government would invest £300m in tackling drugs and
the causes of drugs "so that a drugs culture can no longer flourish in
the community".
He said that the Government will also be announcing two new
organisations - Sport Against Drugs and Business Against Drugs.
On the same day, 350 people took part in a rally led by Scottish
Socialist MSP Tommy Sheridan calling for the legalisation of cannabis.

**

CELTIC LEGEND FIGHTS FOR LIFE

HeadLine: CELTIC LEGEND FIGHTS FOR LIFE

The Mirror, 15/05/2001, p1
by SHAUN MILNE

CELTIC legend Bobby Murdoch was fighting for his life last night after
suffering a massive stroke.
The "Lisbon Lion" was in a coma at Glasgow's Victoria Infirmary with
his family at his bedside.
Shocked former members of the 1967 European Cup champions were last
night praying that Murdoch, 57, would pull through.
But close friends were fearing the worst after doctors described his
condition as "critical".
Fellow Lisbon Lion Jim Craig rushed to his bedside last night.
He said: "Bobby's in a coma and we really don't know any more than
that. He's in a very bad way.
"We just hope and pray that he comes through, but he's in a very
serious condition.
"I went to the hospital the moment I was told. Everybody is just really
shocked."
Murdoch's wife Kathleen, his two sons and daughter remained at his
bedside last night.
It is understood Murdoch went to the hospital on Sunday with a hernia
complaint, but his condition deteriorated throughout the day and he
slipped into a coma.
Murdoch was a regular visitor to Northern Ireland and attended a
supporters' meeting in Belfast's Europa Hotel last month.
The Celtic team became legends when they beat Inter Milan in Lisbon,
Portugal, to bring the European Cup to Britain for the first time.
Former team-mate Bobby Lennox said: "This has come as a terrible shock
to us all."
Several of Murdoch's former team-mates visited him in hospital
throughout the day.
Legend Jimmy Johnstone was at his bedside last night.
He said: "We are just completely devastated and this has as a terrible
shock to everybody.
"All the boys have been phoning throughout the day and everybody knows
how serious it is."
Celtic officials were being kept informed of Murdoch's condition last
night.
A spokeswoman said: "The thoughts of everybody at the club are with
Bobby and his family at this difficult time."
Murdoch is the oldest of four boys and grew up in Rutherglen, where he
still lives.
At just 14 he showed the skills which would make him a Celtic legend
and eventually signed for the club he adored in 1960 as a £3-a-week
part-time player while still working as a sheet metal worker opposite
Parkhead.
He spent 13 years at Celtic - playing 10 of them with a badly damaged
ankle.
Celtic supporters were also stunned last night as news of his condition
filtered through.
Paul O'Neill from Belfast-based Eire Go Brach supporters club said: "He
was in Belfast and Dundalk last month helping fans in the 'Hands of the
Hoops campaign' against the new kit." He was very good to Irish fans
especially.
"Any time he was needed for a function or to speak at a dinner he would
come over. There is a lot of affection for him with the fans."
Celtic Supporters Association's Eddie Toner said: ""It is a real shock
to hear what has happened and our thoughts are obviously with Bobby and
his family.
"Like everyone else we are just hoping he recovers."

**

PRIZE LOSER

HeadLine: PRIZE LOSER

The Mirror, 16/05/2001, p15
by SHAUN MILNE

A BINGO winner was yesterday ordered to hand over half her record
£108,000 win to her former friend.
Lorna Anderson, 38, and Isobel Robertson, 40, pledged to "go halfers"
on any winnings.
But when Lorna scooped the National Game jackpot in 1997, the UK's
largest bingo payout, she refused to share it.
Isobel sued. And a judge in Edinburgh said Lorna "was not telling the
truth" when she denied the agreement existed.
Last night Lorna, of Dunoon, Argyll, slammed the phone down, saying: "I
don't want to discuss anything just now, thanks."
Ex-neighbour Isobel, now living in Glasgow, said: "I am sad to have
lost a friendship but I am delighted at the outcome."

**

JACKPOT

HeadLine: JACKPOT

The Mirror, 21/06/2001, p1
by SHAUN MILNE

SCOTLAND'S biggest ever lottery winners were in hiding last night after
scooping a mega £11.1million jackpot.
Stunned Derek and Sheila Wilson, from Fife, were holed up ahead of a
press conference today.
Friends said the quiet- living couple simply do not know what to do
with the money, adding: "They are shell-shocked."
But it will be the perfect wedding day present for Sheila's youngest
son Paul, 32, who marries his girlfriend Shirley in Ireland next month.
The winners were whisked away and unavailable for comment late last
night.
But when asked how the new millionaires were coping, strapping son Paul
- who works in the Middle East - said: "How do you think they feel?"
Last night Sheila's other two children Richard, 34, and Martin, 36,
both refused to comment.
The Wilson's took a midweek rollover draw with the their numbers 7, 25,
31, 35, 39 and 45.
Bespectacled technician Derek, 54, and wife Sheila, 57, tried to keep
their win under wraps begging lottery organisers Camelot not to divulge
their names.
But the pair couldn't keep the jackpot a secret.
Sheila, a former RAF worker, admitted to pals she was a "bag of nerves".
The win eclipses that of John McGuinness from South Lanarkshire who
claimed £10.1million.
Sheila's first husband Barry Fane said: "I wish her luck - but I don't
envy the problems it could bring."

**

EXPOSED DOWN UNDER

HeadLine: EXPOSED DOWN UNDER

The Mirror, 23/06/2001, p11
by SHAUN MILNE

A JILTED wife got her own back on her cheating husband by sending his
new 'cyber' lover proof he was an online serial cheat.
Cowardly Colin Henry, 48, crept out of his home in the middle of the
night and jetted off Down Under to start a new life with an Australian
woman he met on the Internet.
His shattered wife Rosie only found out when she woke up to find a note
telling her "goodbye".
When she checked his computer, she found he had been cheating on her
with other cyber lovers for years.
But she got her revenge by bundling up the explicit emails and
forwarding them to his new flame in Australia while her unsuspecting
husband was flying out.
One friend said: "There were hundreds of emails talking about sex.
Rosie just hit the roof.
"She mailed them to his girlfriend in Australia while he was still on
his way. It will have been a nice for him - his new woman knowing he is
a rat by the time he got there."
At their semi-detached home in Midlothian yesterday Rosie, who lives
with her teenage son and daughter, admitted her husband had left her.
She said: "He's moved to Australia I'm still very shocked. We're trying
to piece our lives back together."
Rosie only discovered the extent of her husband's cyber cheating by
raiding his computer files.
A neighbour of the couple, who did not want to be named, said: "We
heard he had left her for another woman in Australia.
"It's such a pity. They always seemed to be a perfectly happy couple.
"It's strange how you could fall in love with someone over the
internet, without knowing what they look like."
Another neighbour added: "We are all shocked. Rosie is a lovely woman.
"It's a terrible shame that he has left her in the lurch like this."

**

JUNGLE HOSTAGE DAD IS REUNITED WITH HIS FAMILY

HeadLine: JUNGLE HOSTAGE DAD IS REUNITED WITH HIS FAMILY

The Mirror, 10/07/2001, p4
by SHAUN MILNE

HOSTAGE horror survivor Ally Taylor was reunited with his wife and
young son last night after almost two years of heart-rending
separation.
Tears of joy flowed as Ally, 47, scooped four-year-old Alycito up in
his arms while giving wife Martha a much longed-for kiss.
It was the moment he feared he would never see. He was a free man after
being held for 679 days by left-wing rebels in Colombia.
After a whirlwind few days, the oil engineer, from Inverurie,
Aberdeenshire, was drained but desperate to see his elderly parents,
Sandy and Chrissie.
Ally was freed by the National Liberation Army, ELN, on Friday after
being held in the jungle for 23 months.
After his plane finally touched down at Aberdeen Airport yesterday, he
smiled: "It's very good to be back. I'm ecstatic.
"A lot of times it went through my mind that I may never get home. But
I knew there were an awful lot of people rooting for me.
"You just have to cope. There's nothing else you can do.
"I have not seen my family. That's what I'm going to do right now, I'm
looking forward to that.
"It is going to be hard getting to know everyone again. My son was
two-and-a-half, now he is four-and-a-half.
"It is still sinking in but there's a million things I want to do."
Ally admitted that at the time, he was not 100 per cent sure he was
being freed.
His brother Charlie, who accompanied him on the flight home, added: "We
would like to thank all the people who helped us with the case.
Everybody's been absolutely super.
"We need to spend some time as a family. Ally wants to slip back into
the community as quietly as possible."
Dad-of-three Ally was handed over to negotiators on Thursday night and
taken to a hotel before travelling to Colombian capital Bogota.
There, on Friday, he met Charlie, British Embassy officials and
representatives of his company, Texas-based Weatherford Oil.
Ally was kidnapped by the gun-toting rebels on August 27 1999 as he
drove to work near the oil city Yopal.
His jeep was forced to a halt and an armed gang bundled him into the
boot of their car.
He was taken to an abandoned farm in the jungle and moved to a
different location every few weeks.
His employer later received a ransom note for pounds 2million from ELN,
who sent regular "proof-of-life" photographs but refused to meet for
negotiations.
Weatherford was banned from paying the cash because, with 3,700 kidnaps
in the last year alone, the Colombian government had forbidden
companies from giving in to terrorists.
In April, a video interview with Ally showed him to be tired but
determined to keep hoping for his freedom.
Ally, divorced from his first wife, Shona, was driven away to a secret
location last night.
Other former hostages, including Terry Waite, have offered their
assistance in helping him adjust to everyday life again.

**

CARNAGE

HeadLine: CARNAGE

The Mirror, 22/08/2001, p1
by SHAUN MILNE

THREE pals were fighting for their lives last night after a teenage
driver ploughed into a school bus queue.
Fiona McGill, 15, Stephanie O'Brien, 12, and Julie Ann Glancey, 13, all
from Uddingston, Lanarkshire, were catapulted several feet into the
air.
Fellow pupil David Bradley told how he and his friends had to jump out
of the way of the car moments before the bloody carnage unfolded.
He said: "The driver came straight at us. We had to jump out of the way
but he crossed the road and went straight into three girls."
His dad Peter, 45, a former ambulanceman, added: "It was one of the
worst scenes I have ever witnessed."

HeadLine: SCHOOL PALS MOWN DOWN AS THEY WAIT FOR THEIR BUS

The Mirror, 22/08/2001, p6&7
by SHAUN MILNE

THREE pals were mown down as they waited for their school bus yesterday.
The schoolgirls were thrown three feet into the air and over a fence by
the force of the impact after a teenage lost control of his car.
All three were fighting for life in hospital last night.
One of the girls, Fiona McGill, 15, sustained serious head injuries.
Her pal Stephanie O'Brien, 12, underwent surgery after being impaled
through her stomach on an iron fence spike.
And Stephanie's best friend Julie Ann Glancey, 13, shattered her pelvis
and broke both legs after being crushed by the car.
Julie Ann's dad Robert ran bare-chested from his nearby terraced house
and frantically tried to help his badly-injured daughter.
Six other pupils were treated for shock at the scene after watching the
car plough into their young friends.
Last night police were still investigating the cause of the accident in
Uddingston, Lanarkshire, and were quizzing the 18-year-old driver of
the car, a postman.
Second year pupil David Bradley said he and friends had to jump out of
the way of the car moments before it ploughed into the youngsters.
The shocked teenager said: "We saw the red car driving up the road and
a post van coming in the other direction.
"The car was going very fast and as it passed the post van the driver
swerved towards it.
"But when he swerved away to miss it he lost control and mounted the
pavement and came straight at us.
"We had to jump out of the way but he crossed the road again and went
straight into three girls and sent them flying up in the air."
His dad, former ambulanceman Peter Bradley, 45, dashed out of his house
to help the girls.
He said: "It was one of the worst scenes I have ever witnessed.
"The girls had been thrown into the park and were all badly injured.
"I immediately went to Fiona who seemed the worst and was unconscious
with a fractured skull. She had blood pouring from nose and ears.
"Stephanie had a badly injured abdomen and Julie Ann had two badly
broken legs and the skin had been ripped from the knee and shin of one
of them.
"She had obviously broken her pelvis but despite the pain she was being
very brave and kept asking me how her friends were."
Eyewitnesses claim the driver of the Vauxhall Nova swerved and, as he
attempted to correct his course, lost control and mounted the kerb,
catapulting the girls over the three feet fence into a playpark.
Psychiatric nurse John Grant, 42, was lying in bed when he heard the
roar of a car engine, brakes screeching, the sound of a smash then
screaming.
He threw on his clothes and rushed outside.
The shaken nurse said: "The scene was horrific.
"I have never seen anything like it my life and hope I won't ever again.
"The girls had been thrown into the park and were badly injured. The
driver was kneeling beside the smashed up Nova.
"One of the girls had her head slumped against the fence and appeared
to have abdominal injuries. She was slipping into unconsciousness and
going into severe shock.
"I put a pad to her injured front and tried to keep her conscious until
the ambulance arrived.
"The other girl had a severe leg injury and was screaming and crying.
"A group of kids from another school had got on their bus just two
minutes before.
"It was bad enough but there could have been a blood bath."
Another nearby resident, John Donnelly, 30, said he ran out of his home
seconds after he heard the sound of the car smashing into the metal
fence.
He said: "I just grabbed some towels and used them to cover the girls'
injuries.
"There were lots of other people doing what they could to help."
Schoolbags, books and jotters were strewn across the crash scene which
was yesterday left dripping in blood.
Fiona, Julie Ann and Stephanie had been waiting to be picked up for the
second day of the new term at Cardinal Newman High School in nearby
Bellshill when tragedy struck.
The three girls were rushed to hospital after the horror smash - just
yards from their homes.
Julie Ann and Fiona were rushed to Monklands District hospital while
Stephanie was taken to Wishaw General.
Staff at Monklands last night said Fiona was in a critical condition in
intensive care suffering from severe head injuries.
Her two schoolpals were in a serious condition.
School chaplain Father Stephen Riley administered Last Rites to Fiona
as she lay in casualty.
Father Jim Morris, of nearby St Gabriel's, said: "I was saying mass
when news of this tragic accident was given to me.
"Father Riley has been comforting the families.
"We will be saying prayers at mass today and lighting candles for all
three girls and their next of kin."
At the family's terraced home, Fiona's older sister Claire, 17, who had
just returned from the hospital with her boyfriend Rab Norman, 20, said
they were all devastated by the accident.
She said: "The whole family is with her right now in the intensive care
ward.
"The doctors say she is still critical. We have heard rumours about how
the accident happened but we don't know the full circumstances yet."
Her boyfriend added: "The family are devastated. No-one can quite
believe it."
Strathclyde Police traffic officers sealed off the road for three hours
and began a detailed investigation at the accident scene.
But it is understood a section of the bloodied fence has now been taken
away for examination by forensic scientists.
A Royal Mail spokesman revealed that the driver of the car had been on
duty at the time.
He said that the company allows postmen to use their own vehicles to
get to and from the start and finish of their rounds.
He added: "How the accident happened is a matter for the police and we
will certainly liaise with them in any way we can.
"We will be interviewing the postman concerned as part of our own
internal inquiries.
"Our thoughts are with the injured children and their families."

**

Baby joy for ace Higgins

HeadLine: Baby joy for ace Higgins

The Mirror, 01/10/2001, p26
by SHAUN MILNE & GRAHAM TIBBETTS

FORMER world snooker champ John Higgins has became a dad for the first
time.
Wife Denise, 25, gave birth to baby Pierce just after midnight,
sparking the family celebrations in their hometown Wishaw, Lanarkshire.
Dad John Higgins Snr said: "John was there to cut the umbilical cord."
Ace Higgins, 26, has already scooped the Champions Cup and Regal
Masters so far this season.
But a family friend added: "John and Denise are simply over the moon.
"This is better than winning any trophy."

**

JACKIE STEWART'S WIFE HAS CANCER LIKE HIS SON

HeadLine: JACKIE STEWART'S WIFE HAS CANCER LIKE HIS SON

The Mirror, 05/10/2001, p15
by SHAUN MILNE

MOTOR racing legend Sir Jackie Stewart yesterday revealed his wife
Helen has breast cancer.
It comes 18 months after the couple's son Paul won his own battle with
cancer.
Three-times Formula One world champion Sir Jackie said: "We are both
really confident that she is going to pull through it."
Helen had a lump removed two weeks ago at the Minnesota clinic where
Paul, 36, was treated for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
Sir Jackie said her surgery was a success and she also had intensive
radiotherapy.
Helen, 60, who describes herself as a "professional homemaker",
recently said watching her son's battle for life was more traumatic
than watching her husband race.
Paul was diagnosed with cancer of the colon last year and had to step
down as chief operating officer of the Jaguar Formula One team.
Sir Jackie said yesterday: "He is in remission but there will be a
cloud hanging over us for the next four years." He spoke as he opened a
new wing at The Priory hospital, Glasgow, which treated his brother for
alcoholism.
Sir Jackie, 63, and Helen married in 1962. Earlier this year, he said:
"My family are everything to me. We have always been very close."

**

POLAR COUPLE PUT THE BUBBLY ON ICE

HeadLine: POLAR COUPLE PUT THE BUBBLY ON ICE

Daily Record, 06/01/2000, p33
by SHAUN MILNE

A BRITISH couple have renewed their wedding vows at the South Pole
after a record-breaking trek.
Fiona and Mike Thorne made history with the special ceremony just hours
after completing the gruelling 730-mile hike.
The Nottingham pair are the first married couple to make it to either
pole.
And Fiona became one of the first two British women to reach the South
Pole on foot.
The incredible effort was marked by the ceremony in the snow at the US
base.
Policeman Mike wore his uniform flown out specially for the occasion.
But the team of nine had eaten the wedding cake during their 61-day
adventure.
Fiona, 33, a recruitment consultant, and Mike, who turned 37 during the
trip, braved temperatures as low as minus 48C to walk for up to 14
hours a day.
Speaking by satellite phone, Fiona said: "I cannot believe it is over.
I am totally exhausted and totally elated.
"All day I have been able to ignore the pain from my bleeding feet and
the infected sores on my legs, knowing that it would soon be over."
Mike, who struggled to keep up at times after injuring his knee, added:
"It's just amazing to be here. I am very sorry I cannot say any more at
the moment because my mouth and hands have started to freeze."
After thawing out over a hot meal, cooked by staff at the US base
there, they gathered back on the ice to renew their vows.
Fellow traveller Graham Murphy, an Australian, performed the service in
front of the other six members of the expedition. Among them was
Catherine Hartley, a 34-year-old TV stage manager from south London who
had shrugged off a severe case of frostbite and a near-fatal fall down
a crevasse during the trip.
Catherine, the only member of the party with no hiking experience, was
on the verge of being airlifted out with frostbitten fingers but
bravely carried on.
Her battle against the elements allowed her to share the record with
Fiona as the only British women to have made it to the South Pole on
foot.
During the trek, each member of the team pulled a sledge weighing
150lbs and used skis with special skins allowing them to grip ice and
snow.
The route took the party to heights of more than 9000ft, across
formidable glaciers, ice caps and mountain passes.
Last night Fiona's mum, Mary Alton, was delighted by news of the
ceremony.
Mary, 61, said: "For the last few days, all she has been talking about
is when she can become a girl again and warm herself under the
hairdryer.
"I knew Fiona would follow Mike to the end of the world, which she now
has."

**

Cardinal slammed as girl, 12, has a baby

HeadLine: Cardinal slammed as girl, 12, has a baby

Daily Record, 31/01/2000, p11
by SHAUN MILNE

A 12-YEAR-OLD girl paid by the Roman Catholic Church in Scotland not to
have an abortion has had her baby.
And last night a pro-choice group slammed Cardinal Thomas Winning after
a spokesman admitted the Church was "delighted" by the birth.
A Church spokesman said last night: "We're delighted the child has been
born and we're very happy that both mother and child are well.
"The people in charge of the Pro-Life initiative will be in touch with
them and if they need any help we will try to give it in any way we
can."
No detail of the birth was released by social workers in Devon where
the girl lives.
The local authority took out a High Court injunction last year banning
reporting of details which could lead to her identification.
The secrecy is meant to protect the young mother who has a mental age
of six.
The case caused controversy when it first emerged the Catholic Church's
Pro-Life Initiative was offering her family financial help.
In less than three years since the initiative was launched, more than
180 babies have been born.
Roseann Reddy, co-ordinator of the initiative, said: "None of the women
who have chosen to have their children have regretted the decision."
But Sarah Colborne, chair of the National Abortion Campaign, attacked
the Church's scheme.
She said: "We feel it was damaging to the young woman that she had been
dragged through the media.
"She was used as a tool to get publicity for Cardinal Winning's scheme
rather than looking at what she needed herself."

**

PLUCKED TO SAFETY

HeadLine: PLUCKED TO SAFETY

Daily Record, 07/02/2000, p9
by SHAUN MILNE

A SCOTS fisherman was just 10 minutes from death after his trawler sank
in the North Sea, plunging him and four crew mates into the icy depths.
Mike Simpson spent 20 minutes battling freezing temperatures in a force
five storm when the Peterhead-registered trawler Angela foundered.
He was rescued just in time by the crew of a nearby oil platform
support vessel which raced across four-and-a- half-miles of sea to
reach him.
Rescuers said he was "extremely lucky" to be found in time as most
people will only survive for 30 minutes in such conditions.
Skipper Mark Addison and the other three crew managed to get to a
lifeboat in time. All five were then airlifted ashore by a Sea King
helicopter from RAF Lossiemouth.
Still wearing the survival suit which prolonged his ability to stay
conscious, Mike was able to walk into hospital where he was treated for
hypothermia and shock.
Last night the Angela's co-owner Peter Strachan said there was great
relief that the men had survived the sinking of the 19-year-old boat.
He said: "It's a real shock, we just don't know what happened. But the
main thing is that the crew is safe and Mike appears to be OK. Boats
can be replaced but people can't."
The five fishermen were rescued after the 17-metre steel-hulled vessel
went down after taking on water in the wheelhouse 72 miles north-east
of Aberdeen.
Despite being desperate to get off the sinking vessel, one heroic
crewman stayed on aboard to transmit their position to Coastguards.
A spokeswoman said: "The boat was sinking around him but we managed to
get him to stay long enough to send their location.
"That's how we managed to get someone there so quickly, it was vital
information."
Mike was eventually plucked from the sea by a fast rescue craft from
stand-by vessel Scott Guardian from the nearby Scott platform.
* The bodies of the seven Solway Harvester victims will be flown home
from the Isle of Man today for burial.
Skipper Andrew Craig Mills, 29, his brother Robin, 33, their cousin
David, 17, Martin Milligan, 26, John Murphy, 22, David Lyons, 18, and
Wesley Jolly, 17, all died when the boat sank off the island last
month.

**

BRECHIN JUST GOT EVEN MORE BORING

HeadLine: BRECHIN JUST GOT EVEN MORE BORING

Daily Record, 08/02/2000, p17
by SHAUN MILNE

THE town dubbed the most boring in Britain by an Internet tour guide
has become an even bigger yawn.
Brechin's social heart, Flicks Nightclub, has been banned from playing
music after watchdogs found it had been operating illegally for a year.
Phonograph Performance Ltd discovered nightclub bosses had failed to
pay for their music licence and won an order to stop the venue playing
records.
Phonograph, which casts a watchful eye over the UK on behalf of artists
and recording companies to ensure they are paid royalties, was granted
an order at Forfar Sheriff Court yesterday.
The court also ordered Flicks to pay £1975, which represents the bulk
of the licence for a year.
The ruling means that unless the club's management make the outstanding
payments, weekend revellers will be left kicking their heels.
The court was told Flicks had paid part of the licence fee but had been
playing records two nights a week since last March without a licence.
Suzanne Bye, licensing manager for Phonograph, said: "We could refuse
them a licence in future."
Flicks became a disco phenomenon in the 1980s as a pioneering venue on
the east coast which attracted clubbers from Edinburgh, Glasgow and
Aberdeen.
Last week The Knowhere Guide to Britain website branded the town
"boring".
The website, from London-based media company State 51, said: "The
majority of people in Brechin have no social life at all.
"They go out in their own wee groups divided into the stuck-up snob
bitches too cool to speak to anyone else and thick college dropouts who
fight because that is all their pea-brains are capable of."
Ironically one of the few places praised was Flicks.
Last night, Marc Sivewright, of Flicks, blamed the legal action against
the club on a bank error.
He claimed the problem was in the process of being "sorted out" and
said it should be business as usual this weekend.

**

JO WINS RIGHT FOR BOYS TO WEAR SKIRTS INTO SCHOOL

HeadLine: JO WINS RIGHT FOR BOYS TO WEAR SKIRTS INTO SCHOOL

Daily Record, 24/02/2000, p19
by SHAUN MILNE

A SCOTS mother has won the right for her daughter to wear trousers to
school.
And the outcome of the legal battle means schoolboys there can now wear
skirts - if they want to.
University professor Claire Hale took daughter Jo's school - Whickham
comprehensive in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear - to court after staff banned
her from wearing trousers in class.
Yesterday, she won an out of court settlement in a landmark case backed
by the Equal Opportunities Commission - who said they would help anyone
tacklesimilar dress issues in future.
Last night, Professor Hale, originally from Irvine, Ayrshire, said:
"We're delighted.
"It means that on any day a child can decide what they want to wear to
school without discrimination.
"We don't know what the future holds, who knows if a boy will want to
wear skirts - and why not?
"You have David Beckham wearing a sarong and all those posh boarding
schools in Scotland where they wear kilts."
Thrilled Jo, 14, added: "I am delighted. Now I will be glad to put this
behind me.
"After all, if you're in class and doing your work then what does it
matter if you're wearing trousers?"
Last night, the school insisted that they only backed down over costs.
Peter Maughan, chairman of the school governors, said: "We were
prepared to foot a bill of between £1000 and £3000 if we lost.
"But the EOC decided to hire the most expensive lawyers in the land and
forced the costs up.
"If we had lost we were looking at a bill of up to pounds 50,000. We
have 1700 children to educate and we couldn't take that risk. We have
been forced into this by chequebook litigation."
An EOC spokeswoman said: "We are really pleased by the result and would
be happy to assist any other parties to negotiate uniform dress codes."
Under the Sex Discrimination Act different dress codes for males and
females are allowed - but it is illegal if the dress code of one sex
disadvantages the other.
Ann Hill, of the Scottish School Boards Association, said: "If boys
wanted to wear skirts at school they would just look stupid. You have
to get a balance between what is practical and what is common sense."

**

SCOTS WORKERS' STRESS EPIDEMIC

HeadLine: SCOTS WORKERS' STRESS EPIDEMIC

Daily Record, 24/02/2000, p29
by SHAUN MILNE

BOSSES in Scotland are Britain's biggest bullies, according to new
research.
Workplace stress is at epidemic levels north of the border, with 54 per
cent of all Scots surveyed saying they suffer from it.
That compares to 37 per cent in the UK as a whole.
Managers who make their staff's lives miserable complain that they are
stressed out in turn by their own demanding superiors.
Experts blame long hours, job cuts and new technology for the rise of
bullying and stress. Psychologist David Lewis said: "Many organisations
have a long-hours culture, with less job security and more overload.
"This comes from increasing business demands coupled with fewer staff,
and also from technological overloads like e-mail and mobile phones."
Sixty-four per cent of Scots said overwork was the main cause of their
stress.
A third said they were stressed out by their colleagues' behaviour, and
28 per cent blamed problems with those working under them.
The survey also revealed 30 per cent of Scots live in fear of
redundancy. That's four per cent higher than the UK average.
Thirty-two per cent of workers here said they would like stress
counselling.
But the favourite ways of coping were drinking after work, shopping,
exercise and talking to family and friends.
Three-quarters of managers surveyed said stress affected their
performance, health and home lives. They blamed strict deadlines,
constant interruptions, lack of support, incompetent superiors and poor
internal communication.
Fifty-five per cent said their sex drive had suffered. But in today's
macho culture, few admitted they could not cope with the same stress
they inflict on staff.
Bosses' body the CBI estimates stress cost Britain pounds 12billion
last year.
One Glasgow business leader claimed stress figures here are only higher
because Scots are quicker to complain.
Douglas Millar, deputy chief executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce,
said: "The difference may be due to the fact that Scots are more ready
to express their feelings.
"It is easy for workers to blame their bosses. But on occasions, stress
is self-inflicted by employees trying to cram too much into their
already-busy lives."
He added: "I don't think stress is a bigger problem in Scotland than
the rest of the UK. But it is a problem, and one which employers must
tackle."
The Scots figures come from a Quality at Work survey for catering and
business support company Sodexho. Bosses across the UK were surveyed by
the Institute of Management.

**

UP OUT OF THE ASHES

HeadLine: UP OUT OF THE ASHES

Daily Record, 26/02/2000, p30
by SHAUN MILNE

HIS stomach churning, a young soldier picks up a severed hand - a
grisly clue to a mystery that happened before he was born.
The crumbling hand is among dozens of mummified body parts unearthed in
the icy slopes of a volcano in Argentina.
It may be the stuff of horror movies, but the real hope is that this
Andes expedition will solve one of the world's longest-running aviation
mysteries.
On August 2, 1947, a converted World War II bomber run by British South
American Airways disappeared on its way to Santiago, Chile.
Three Britons were among the six passengers and five crew on board.
Their last recorded message has puzzled aviation investigators for
years.
Radio operators in Chile received a Morse code signal reading "Stendec"
- an acronym experts say has no meaning.
Air and ski search teams from England, Chile and Argentina found
nothing in the months after the crash and theories have abounded ever
since.
Some said it had been sabotaged to kill a British diplomatic messenger
reportedly on board.
But severe weather is more widely believed to have been the cause. The
crash site, 16,500ft up the volcano, was discovered in January by two
climbers.
A 17-strong military team have collected human torsos, bones, clothing
and other remains, including those of a woman, and stored them in
fridges.
Last night Colonel Hamon Massey, the defence attache at the British
Embassy in Buenos Aires, said: "It's a thankless task in severe
conditions."
Yesterday, the remains were transported by army ambulance to a morgue
in the western city of Mendoza for DNA analysis.
Experts hope to identify the victims in their desperate search for
answers.
Shredded wings and fuselage, frayed cables, pieces of the plane's
Rolls-Royce engine, and even part of a seat with a parachute attached
have been found.

**

CARNAGE: RUSSIANS SLAUGHTER BABY SEALS IN THE SNOW

HeadLine: CARNAGE: RUSSIANS SLAUGHTER BABY SEALS IN THE SNOW

Daily Record, 10/03/2000, p34
by STEVE MARTIN & SHAUN MILNE

TURNING the white landscape crimson red, a river of blood runs across
the frozen snow of the Arctic.
Beaten to death in the most brutal manner possible, hundreds of seal
cubs lie dead on the ground.
The slaughter fuels the fur trade in Russia and the Far East - still
booming despite the revulsion of the rest of the world.
It is a picture seen every year in the annual week-long seal cull near
the Russian city of Archangel.
And while the image might be familiar, its gruesome detail retains a
numbing ability to shock.
Amid the devastation, locals wander relaxed as though on a stroll in
the sun.
Skinned while lying on the ice, the seal bodies are loaded into
helicopters to be taken for meat processing.
Villagers in Nizhnaya Zolatitsa, 100 miles from Archangel, make $100
each from the annual cull. It is one of their few sources of income for
the year.
But for the fur traders who make millions from their tainted goods, the
money is a drop in the ocean.
Nick Jenkins, of the International Fund for Animal Welfare, said:
"Tragically, we see these pictures every year.
"These are young seals just a few weeks old which are clubbed to death
in the most horrifying way possible. It is barbaric and has no place in
a modern, civilised world.
"The people doing the culling make little money out of it, which makes
it all the more senseless."
During the 1980s, world opinion turned against seal hunting.
But campaigners now fear the battle is being lost because of demand for
fur in Russia and the Far East.
Jenkins added: "The grim reality is that in some parts of the world,
the fur trade is booming. If there was no demand, then there would be
no seal culling."
Campaigners have also held talks with the villagers about alternative
ways of making a living.
Jenkins said: "The possibilities from these methods of making a living
may well prove much more profitable than the seal cull."

**

..AND NOW THERE'S THE SMILE EYE CLUB

HeadLine: ..AND NOW THERE'S THE SMILE EYE CLUB

The People, 30/04/2000, p19
by SHAUN MILNE

SPY cameras are being fitted to the London Eye to stop amorous couples
trying to join the "Eye Mile High Club".
Thrill-seekers have been booking entire pods at £275 a time for
the half-hour long ride on the Millennium Wheel.
Now CCTV cameras are being fitted to all 32 pods in a bid to deter the
couples.
The move comes after staff spotted one randy pair in a clinch in one of
the glass capsules hundreds of feet up on the south bank of the Thames.
A worker at the British Airways sponsored attraction said: "This guy
was trying to get the woman's blouse off.
"But one of our workers spotted them from another car.
"He told them over the intercom in no uncertain terms to cut it out or
he would have to report them to police. But they didn't seem to be
bothered. They just smiled and went away laughing and giggling when
they got off."
Most of the customers have children with them for a day out.
The worker added: "It might seem quite funny but the last thing we want
is a load of kids to get an eyeful of something like that.
"Those pods that haven't got any cameras fitted yet are going round
with a worker in them to make sure no-one gets up to any naughties."
It is hoped the new security system will also help stop another craze -
stink bombs being let off by schoolkids.

**

IT'S CUFF JUSTICE!

HeadLine: IT'S CUFF JUSTICE!

The People, 21/05/2000, p17
by SHAUN MILNE

DOZY medics saved a convict suffering a heart attack - but electrocuted
a prison officer chained to him.
The hospital staff who used a defibrillator to shock the prisoner's
heart back to life forgot he was handcuffed to the warder.
The electrical charge was transmitted through the metal cuffs into the
officer's body.
Both men had to be rushed to hospital after the blunder at Garth Prison
in Lancaster.
The warden was found to have an irregular heartbeat and had to take
time off. He is now planning to take nearby Chorley District Hospital
to court.
Staff from the hospital arrived at the jail's medical centre after the
inmate complained of chest pains.
The high-security prisoner was "double cuffed" - one pair shackling his
hands and the other secured to his escort. But he collapsed in the
prison grounds before he could be taken to hospital.
Medics asked for his handcuffs to be opened and surged power into his
chest without realising the guard was still attached.
The charge was so strong it raced through the cuffs and into the
officer's own heart.
He was off work for three weeks and after returning had to go off sick
again. He is now back at his regular post.
The Prison Service said the hospital is carrying out an inquiry.
Jail sources say the officer is planning to sue for damages on the
grounds of negligence.
He claims the medical staff involved did not shout a warning before
using the defibrillator.
If they had, he told friends, he would have told them not to proceed
until he had uncuffed himself.

**

HONEYMOON IN JAIL FOR BRIDE 'N BOOM

HeadLine: HONEYMOON IN JAIL FOR BRIDE 'N BOOM

The People, 18/06/2000, p18
by SHAUN MILNE

A BRIDE and groom spent their wedding night in separate jail cells
after fighting at their own reception.
Cops were called to a pub to separate them after they started a
slanging match in front of their stunned guests.
Groom Tim Firwin, 25, suffered cuts to his arm after gashing himself on
glass from windows broken during their first married tiff.
Police found them in the toilet still arguing.
Tim's 34-year-old bride Donna's off-white dress was stained crimson by
her husband's blood.
Police finally arrested them after they kept going hammer and tongs in
hospital at Salisbury, Wilts, where Tim's wounds were stitched.
They were released the next day without charge.
Landscape gardener Tim sheepishly said: "We'd both had our share to
drink, but our marriage is not on the rocks. We are in love."

**

The Black Widow: I SURVIVED BLACK WIDOW

HeadLine: The Black Widow: I SURVIVED BLACK WIDOW

The People, 20/08/2000, p6&7
by SHAUN MILNE

THE husband who miraculously survived a savage attack by sex-crazed
"Black Widow" Dena Thompson today reveals the full horror of what he
went through.
Richard Thompson, speaking exclusively to the Sunday People, told how
wicked Dena...

LURED him into a kinky bondage session with the promise of
mind-blowing sex.

BOUND, gagged and blindfolded her trusting hubby.

SMASHED a baseball bat down on his head.

RAMMED a knife blade into his shoulder as his blood streamed on to
the floor.

SNEERED that he would never dare go to the police because of the
shame.

Richard, 42, who has agreed to speak to the Sunday People about his
ordeal to warn any future potential victims of the calculating Black
Widow, said: "I thought I was a dead man.
"I have no doubt she wanted to finish me off. It's only sheer luck that
she didn't.
"I have no doubt she is capable of killing someone. She is pure evil.
"Even now I am afraid. I can't go into a shower because the water in my
eyes reminds me of all the blood running down my face."
To the astonishment of Richard and a team of 15 detectives who spent
six months trying to bring Dena, 40, to justice, she was cleared at
Lewes Crown Court last week of attempted murder.
Last night she was starting a jail sentence of three years and nine
months for ripping off the life-savings of Richard and two previous
gullible boyfriends.
And there is no doubt in Richard's mind that his bride of nine months
launched the brutal attack last January because he was about to
discover she had cleaned out his bank account.
The former BT engineer was wary at first when Dena suggested the
bondage session at their cottage in Rustington, West Sussex.
But he went along with it because - like the Black Widow's previous
husbands and boyfriends - he was mesmerised by her bubbly personality
and huge sexual appetite.
Richard says: "I woke up about 8am and she said she wanted us to have a
bath together.
"We sat in the tub, fondling each other, washing each other, when she
got up and went to the bedroom.
"She came back with a big pile of towels and laid them on the floor
tiles and said, 'I've got a surprise for you'. If only I knew how big a
surprise. She got me to lie down on my back and she performed a sex act
on me. It was great.
"Then she said she wanted to tie my hands behind my back. I wasn't very
keen but I agreed.
"She used a belt to bind my wrists but I'd secretly flexed my muscles
so when I relaxed the belt was still loose.
"Then she cut some packing tape and used it to bind my ankles and knees
together.
"She asked what I could do to protect myself the way I was and I said
all I could do was kick up at 45 degrees. I used to do martial arts so
showed her what I'd do.
"Never at any point did I think I was in any danger - she was my wife
whom I loved and trusted, we had just performed intimate acts, I was
totally relaxed in her presence."
Then came Richard's moment of hell.
He says: "She put a towel on my face and asked if I could see anything
and I said 'No' and she performed a sex act again.
"Then she lifted off the towel and placed tape over my mouth. I thought
it was strange, I'd never done this before but it was exciting and I
trusted her, even when she put the towel back so I couldn't see again.
"All of a sudden it went silent and I wondered what was going on, what
she planned next.
"Then Pow! I felt the most excruciating pain of my life on my forehead
and was dazed.
"I was still trying to work out what had happened when I was hit for
the second time.
"I could hear a ringing sound of metal and figured it was our metal
baseball bat. I thought, I'm really in trouble here. I was so scared.
"All the while I was trying to figure out what the hell was going on,
why this was happening to me.
"I couldn't see a thing, blood was pouring out my head and into my
eyes, my head was buzzing.
"All the time I was trying not to pass out. I was still bound but tried
to sit up. Because the belt was loose I pulled my hand free and wiped
my eyes and saw Dena standing at the door with the bat.
"I was screaming at her, 'What are you doing?' and the floor was
getting wetter with my blood, it was pooling.
"She had a knife and stabbed me in the shoulder but I somehow pushed
her back. I was fighting for my life.
"I tried to struggle up and she slipped on the floor, either because
she slipped on the blood or because I caught her with my feet, I'm not
sure.
"I saw the glint of steel in her left hand and thought if she gets up
before I can get to the knife then I'm dead.
"I knew I couldn't reach it so I lunged at her instead, I put my right
thumb in her left eye and pressed hard.
"I shouted 'Drop the knife!' and kept pressing until she gave up. Then
I put my weight on her until I knew I had control of her.
"I freed myself and we got up - me making sure the bat and the knife
were well out of her reach first.
"I couldn't think straight, I couldn't understand what had just
happened here, I just screamed at her, 'What the hell are you doing?'.
"She said, 'I just wanted to make it more thrilling, darling' and I
shouted, 'What!'
"Her eyes were wide open, crazed. She just gave me this cold, icy stare
but said little. We were covered in my blood. It was like something
from the film Carrie when she gets covered with a bucket of blood at
the end.
"I was just pacing about, watching her, trying to decide what to do.
"There was blood everywhere. I shouted at her to clean it up and I put
a cold compress on my head to stop the bleeding. I was shaking like a
leaf.
"Her eyes were still wide open, wild eyes, and she wasn't saying
anything.
"She just sat wearing her panties, and covered in my blood.
"Eventually I told her to get her parents over to take me to hospital.
"I wasn't thinking straight, I just knew I couldn't tell people about
the bondage. She said, 'You know you will never be able to tell anyone
about this. You'll be too ashamed'. And for the next couple of days she
was right.
"I was in shock, but how could I tell my friends what we had been doing?
"She said, 'Don't report it, I don't want to go to Holloway jail'. Of
course what I didn't know was she'd been there before.
"I didn't know I'd married a convicted fraudster.
"Eventually I confided in one really good friend who told another and
they said, 'You have to go to the police.
"After a lot of soul-searching that's what I did.
"When the detective sergeant heard what I had to say he looked me in
the eye and said, 'I believe everything you've just told me'.
"That's when I started to find out about the other men she had ripped
off."
Sussex police have now re-opened the investigation into the mysterious
death of Dena's second husband Julian Webb, 31, who died from a
painkiller overdose six years ago at their home.
The coroner recorded an open verdict after saying he did not believe
Julian had committed suicide.
Detective Constable Sean McDonald, one of 15 officers who spent six
months tracing other fraud victims of the Black Widow both here and in
the US, told the Sunday People: "Dena Thompson is one of the most
dangerous women I have met in 15 years of police work."
But for Richard, that knowledge has come too late.
He says: "She has ruined my life. I felt suicidal with the shame of
what happened and I have had to have counselling.
"My life was so low. I'd lost my job, my wife, my dreams.
"And now I'm scared that when she gets out she will come looking for me
for revenge.
"I've got to try and get on with my life now but I can't do it here in
Britain if I'm constantly looking over my shoulder.
"I don't want her to find me. I've no option but to go abroad.
"It's not just for me. I've met another woman and she's been fantastic
- I would never have made it through this nightmare without her
support. But I can't put her safety at risk.
"As far as I'm concerned Dena is a threat and always will be unless she
gets help."
Richard added: "I have no doubt in my mind she would have killed me
that day if she could.
"I am embarrassed about the circumstances, about how it happened, I
feel a complete fool.
"But I have to warn other men about her. She is evil and by speaking
out I hope people realise that.
"I just wish to God that I'd never met the Black Widow."

**

LAP DANCERS EYE UP KELLY

HeadLine: LAP DANCERS EYE UP KELLY

The People, 17/09/2000, p26
by SHAUN MILNE

FORMER Big Breakfast beauty Kelly Brook hopes she won't be torn off a
strip when she makes her theatre debut as a lap dancer.
Because real life podium girls are queuing for tickets - to see how she
shapes up in the show called Eye Contact.
Many of the lap dancers Kelly and cast members met in London's Soho
while researching their roles have asked for freebie tickets.A source
said: "Kelly and some of the girls went to a couple of clubs in the
past six months just to see what it was like.
"They wanted to make sure their performances were as life-like as
possible and spent some time talking to lap dancers.
"We've had quite a few back in touch asking if they can come along to
see if we have taken their advice.
Former bra ad model Kelly is currently abroad filming, having landed
roles in the forthcoming movies Sorted and Mojo.
In the the show, which opens in London in November, Kelly plays a lap
dancer who reveals her inner fantasies with other characters on stage.
A show insider said "I think it's safe to say the audience might be
just as interesting as the play on some nights!"

**

PRINCE IS A LOVE RAT

HeadLine: PRINCE IS A LOVE RAT

The People, 01/10/2000, p6&7
by SHAUN MILNE

SPURNED millionaire Michael Edwards-Hammond revealed last night how
Prince Andrew stole his stunning girlfriend after flirting with her
right under his nose.
Michael told how randy Andy fell for stunning Caroline Stanbury when
she went to a posh dinner party wearing a tight mini-dress and no
undies.
The smitten prince spent all evening ogling her slinky figure and
insisted on taking her dancing at a top London club.
Andrew, 40, later sneaked Caroline, 25, into his Buckingham Palace
apartment for secret dates.
And when news of their affair leaked out, he coolly phoned Michael and
joked: "I seem to be your love rival, old boy."
Last night shattered Michael, 32, revealed for the first time how he
lost his "gorgeous, fantastic, sexy lover" to the romeo royal.
He told the Sunday People: "I was devastated when I found out they had
been carrying on behind my back.
"Caroline was going off to his place all the time and I didn't have a
clue.
"A friend of hers finally broke the news that they they were seeing
each other.
"But when rumours started becoming public Prince Andrew tried to play
it down and even offered to get his press office to sort it out.
"I feel really stupid for not seeing this coming as I actually
introduced them.
"But I can't really blame Andrew for falling for Caroline. She is
absolutely gorgeous and a fantastic lover.
"I just didn't stand a chance against a prince. But I want to warn him:
Caroline can be a bit of a handful. She is more trouble than Fergie
ever was."
Polo-playing Michael first met Andrew at a charity match earlier this
year.
The businessman helped organise the Warwickshire Cup on July 2 to raise
money for one of the prince's favourite charities the NSPCC.
Andrew couldn't go but later invited Michael to dinner at trendy
Italian restaurant Como Lario in London's Pimlico as a thank-you.
Michael, who had been dating public relations girl Caroline since July
1999, took her along because she wanted to meet the prince.
He said: "She wasn't actually invited but she made it clear she wanted
to come and was really excited at meeting Andrew.
"Caroline was wearing a stunning clingy mini-dress in pink silk which
really showed off her figure.
"She had tried it on in front of me before we left home and I told her
I could see her panty line.
"She just took off her undies and went out with none on."
At the restaurant Michael was surprised at how informal and unstuffy
Andrew was.
The millionaire business consultant said: "He shook my hand and said,
`Hi, I'm Andy'."
Michael watched Caroline inch her way towards the prince during the
dinner - and it was obvious that Andrew found her attractive.
He said: "She is a great-looking girl. He was with a gorgeous model at
the time, but I could see Caroline had caught his eye.
"They started flirting right in front of me but I laughed it off.
"He was captivated by her and who could blame him? She looked stunning."
At Andrew's insistence the group moved on to trendy night-spots The
Rock and Tramp.
But Michael had to leave early because he had a business meeting in the
morning.
He said: "Caroline told me she would stay with Andrew to make sure he
was OK. I should have known better, I suppose."
But Michael was worried when stories appeared in the press a few days
later about Andrew leaving The Rock with a "mystery blonde".
He said: "I rang Caroline and jokingly remarked, `You've ditched me for
Prince Andrew have you?' and she laughed nervously."
More stories followed, revealing the prince and Caroline were in St
Tropez together on holiday.
Michael said: "It was crazy really. I kept asking myself, `Is my girl
really cheating on me with Prince Andrew?'."
Two weeks after the first meal, Andrew again asked if Michael would
join him for dinner - but this time invited Caroline too.
Again they went to Como Lario, then on to the China White night-club
which is owned by a friend of Michael's.
The tycoon said: "During the evening Andrew was being very flirtatious
with a couple of other girls. He had his arms round then and was
stroking their thighs.
"By the end of the night he was standing on a table, his shirt opened
down the front, waving his arms above him.
"It was brilliant, so funny. There were all these people around just
watching open-mouthed.
"His bodyguard whispered to me, `I'm getting too old for this, he
should be too'."
A few days later Caroline, who drives a £30,000 Mercedes SLK sports
car, was invited to Prince Andrew's private apartment to help him
conduct interviews for a new personal assistant.
But Michael was told he was not invited.
He said: "It was then I had the first real inkling that something
wasn't quite right - but I never expected this.
"I suppose I should have done. Andrew is in his forties now, what else
is he going to do if he meets a beautiful girl?
"Of course he is going to lap up her attention and so will she, she
thrives on it.
"Tell me what man wouldn't fancy her. She is fantastic in bed and I
know Andrew is a bit of a womaniser.
"Maybe he is trying to recapture something, and she is extremely
beautiful."
Soon after the press speculation began, Andrew had the nerve to phone
Michael to discuss it.
Michael said: "Andrew told me, `I hear you're my love rival old boy'
and I laughed it off at the time.
"But I told him I felt things were getting out of hand and deep down I
knew what Caroline was really up to.
"Andrew sounded relaxed, saying his Press team could deal with it if I
wanted."
Despite being director of a company with a £4million turnover and
having homes in London and Kent, Michael found it wasn't enough to beat
the Royal charm.
Caroline dropped him last month when it emerged he had spent eight
months in custody for stealing cars when he was a teenager.
But Michael said: "That was just an excuse. I think Andrew finally told
her that I had to go before they could be seen to be with each other."
Michael knows that Andrew may be having a wonderful time in bed with
the athletic beauty.
He said: "Sex with Caroline was sensational. It's no wonder Andrew fell
for her."
Michael spent four hours making love to the stunning blonde at a luxury
country hotel on the night before Andrew's charity polo match.
He said: "Caroline simply has an insatiable appetite for sex.
"We didn't get to bed until well after 2am and I was tired but I
couldn't resist her. Her legs and breasts are the most perfect I've
ever seen.
"Her skin is so soft and smooth and she is just irresistible. She was
very demanding, very athletic. We made love until almost 6am.
"Andrew's eight years older than me and he will have to be very fit to
keep Caroline happy."
Michael is sure he will meet the prince again in the next few months
because of their charity connections.
He said: "I'll still shake his hand if I see him but I'd warn him to be
careful with Caroline.
"I don't doubt she has designs on becoming a princess - after all it's
every girl's childhood dream."

**

OUR MAN MURPHY RULES THE WAVES!

HeadLine: OUR MAN MURPHY RULES THE WAVES!

The People, 22/10/2000, p33
by SHAUN MILNE

HUMAN battleship Kevin Murphy has blasted a 16-year-old record - after
swimming the English Channel THIRTY-TWO times.
Former Sunday People journalist Kevin, 51, captured the King Of The
Channel crown after a gruelling journey from Dover to Cap Griz Nez.
He torpedoed the previous record of 31 crossings set by Mike Read, of
Ipswich, in 1984- but only after calling on super-human strength to
battle appalling weather.
Kevin said: "I'm delighted. I've been after this title for three
decades.
But I'm not finished yet!"
Kevin was passed a note when he arrived back on British shores.
It was from Mike Read - and it simply said: "Congratulations. I knew
you would do it."
So did we all.

**

THE QM II

HeadLine: THE QM II

The Mirror, 07/11/2000, p21
by SHAUN MILNE

CUNARD'S £538million Queen Mary II liner was unveiled as the new
monarch of the seas yesterday.
The majestic 150,000-tonne cruise vessel will be the longest, tallest
and widest passenger ship ever built.
But though she will operate from Southampton and proudly fly the
British flag, she will be built in France.
The QM II follows in the wake of her gracious predecessors the Queen
Mary, Queen Elizabeth and QE2.
With her grand staircases, promenades and imposing public rooms she is
a deliberate attempt to reflect the golden pre-war age of cruise
liners.
Shipbuilding chief Patrick Boissier pledged yesterday: "She will be a
piece of history and a work of art."
Cunard president Larry Pimentel said: "She will carry the grace and
elegance of a bygone era into the future."
The QM II is due to enter service in 2003 carrying some 2,800
passengers and 1,300 crew.
She will be 1,131ft long - about the length of 35 double-decker buses -
and 236ft high.
Her 140,000-horsepower engines, powerful enough to light Southampton,
will enable the giant vessel to travel at nearly 35mph.
There will be nine different classes of cabin ranging from duplex
apartments and penthouse suites - both with butler service - to the
biggest standard cabins on the British market. Other features include:

A MAIN dining room seating 1,310 passengers. It will span the full
width of the ship and be nearly three decks in height;

A 1,100-seat main lounge for Broadway-style productions.

A BALLROOM, nightclub, planetarium, lecture theatre, casino, computer
centre, cinema, five swimming pools and even a pub brewery.

French constructors Chantiers de l'Atlantique will build the QM II at
St Nazaire after Belfast-based Harland and Wolff lost the contract
battle.
The decision cast a shadow over Harland's 1,800 workers.
But yesterday Mr Pimentel said the only reason they were not chosen was
because Harland would have had to join with another firm to build part
of the vessel.
He told a London conference: "We went to the yard that could produce a
vessel on time to the specifications put forward."
The QM II is twice the size of Cunard's 70,327-tonne QE2. The original
81,000-tonne Queen Mary was built at Clydebank and was launched in
1934.
At present, the world's biggest liners are the Finnish-built Explorer
of the Seas and her "sister", the Voyager of the Seas.
Owned by Miami-based Royal Caribbean, each of the 14-deck floating
cities weighs 142,000 tonnes and can carry more than 3,000 passengers.

**

Cherie Blaaarrrgh!

HeadLine: Cherie Blaaarrrgh!

The Mirror, 23/11/2000, p3
by SHAUN MILNE

WITH a right hook any grown-up boxer would envy, a little lad lands a
fistful of play dough smack on Cherie Blair's nose.
She tried to bob and weave but impish Stephen Morrison's aim was just
too accurate.
The Prime Minister's wife might have considered it the height of
ingratitude. After all, she'd spent some time helping Stephen, three,
mould his flour and clay mixture into the shape of a snail as she sat
with a bunch of under-fours on a visit to a community project.
But the mum of four sportingly laughed it off and calmly set about
remaking Stephen's work of art.
With baby Leo in mind she said afterwards: "Nothing about meeting small
children surprises me. And as I have a few more years of modelling clay
in front of me, I suppose I'd better get used to it."
Jan Casson, manager of the Surestart project on the Broomgrove estate
in Hastings, East Sussex, said: "She was wonderful and took it all in
great spirit."
Stephen, who bears a certain resemblance to Tory leader William Hague,
was pleased with himself, too. "I was giving her the play dough and
then I stuck it in her nose," he chortled.
Embarrassed dad Jackie, 38, who had a ringside view, said loyally: "He
can be a bit of a tearaway but usually he is an angel."

**

THE CAPITAL CITY OF THE HIGHLANDS

HeadLine: THE CAPITAL CITY OF THE HIGHLANDS

The Mirror, 19/12/2000, p21
by SHAUN MILNE

IT WAS the biggest event in the history of Inverness - and the world's
media was there to see it.
No, not Madonna's arrival for her showbiz wedding of the year to Guy
Ritchie but yesterday's announcement that Inverness was crowned
Scotland's millennium city by Her Majesty the Queen.
It sparked celebrations in the town hall, made the Christmas lights
appear to glow just that little bit brighter, and the local football
team Caley Thistle seem like world-beaters.
But, for some crazy reason, most of the assembled ruddy-cheeked hacks
and hackettes were chasing the Queen of Pop.
All of that was simply a minor distraction for the 70,000 residents of
Inverness - winner of the Britain in Bloom (best large town) Award
1996.
It joins Brighton & Hove and Wolverhampton as a millennium city -
beating off stiff competition from 36 rival applications.
The status offers no extra royal or Government privileges, though the
kudos of becoming a city is generally expected to bring economic
benefits.
In fact only 14 towns were upgraded in the 20th century, most recently
Armagh and St David's in 1994 and Sunderland in 1992.
Some politicians tried to turn the event into a political mudfight
saying the towns chosen were all in Labour marginal seats.
But Home Office ministers pointed out that unsuccessful bids would have
a second chance for the title in the 2002 Queen's Jubilee.
And those who lost out were swift to offer their congratulations to the
winners.
Edinburgh - 160 miles south - may be the nation's capital but, for
years, Inverness has been deemed the Highland capital, the epicentre of
life in the region.
As Scotland's fifth city - behind Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee and
Aberdeen - it could receive a major economic boost.
Scottish Secretary John Reid was on hand to help with the party
celebrations while keeping a consolation word or two for those who
missed out this time.
He said: "When I visited Inverness 18 months ago there was a real buzz
about the millennium city competition and I am pleased that the efforts
of all those involved have paid off.
"Inverness has long been known as the Highland capital, and I hope that
its new status as a city will provide a welcome boost to the economy,
identity and confidence of Scotland's newest city both in Scotland and
abroad.
"While today is undoubtedly Inverness' day, I want to pay tribute to
the other Scottish towns who entered the competition.
"I know from my visits to Paisley, Stirling and Ayr that the standard
of their bids was high, and this is testimony to the effort and
commitment put in by everyone who supported their nominations."
David Stewart, Labour MP for Inverness East, Nairn and Lochaber, said
he was "overjoyed" Inverness had succeeded in its bid.
He said: "The Inverness bid was first class.
"A huge amount of work went into preparing our bid and I want to thank
everyone who played a part.
"This is truly a historic day for Inverness, a once in a lifetime
event, and a great way to mark the new millennium.
"This decision is an enormous vote of confidence in Inverness and a
mark of the tremendous progress we have made as a town in recent
years."
He even suggested that the newly-appointed city should launch a major
festival to celebrate the occasion.
Fergus Ewing, the Scottish National Party's MSP for Inverness East,
Nairn and Lochaber, also praised the news.
He said: "The benefits are intangible and will help promote Inverness
as a commercial centre as well as an international tourist attraction."
Indeed, he could very well be right.
Rumour has it that Brad Pitt, Jennifer Aniston, Gwyneth Paltrow, and a
host of other stars are heading for the airport later this week.

**

Storm rescue miracle

HeadLine: Storm rescue miracle
The Mirror, 29/12/2000, p1
by SHAUN MILNE

A FISHERMAN told last night of his miraculous survival stranded at sea
overnight in white-out conditions.
John MacDonald was found by rescuers clutching desperately to the
upturned hull of his boat off the coast of Skye.
"I was clinging on for dear life," he said.
"Seeing the lifeboat was the happiest moment of my life."
John's pal Donald MacDonald also had a remarkable escape when he made
his way to shore and was later found freezing and dazed.
The whole country woke yesterday to heavy snow and Arctic temperatures.
But forecasters say there is better weather ahead.

HeadLine: FREEZING FISHERMEN FOUND ALIVE

The Mirror, 29/12/2000
by SHAUN MILNE

TWO fishermen missing overnight in arctic conditions were miraculously
found alive yesterday.
One was found clinging to the upturned hull of his boat in a blizzard
as temperatures plunged to -5C.
The other was discovered a few miles away wandering aimlessly in a
cold-induced daze after somehow managing to strike shore.
Both were last night recovering from their ordeals in hospital, where
they were being treated for shock, hypothermia and exposure.
Lifelong friends John MacDonald, 52, and Donald MacDonald, 46,
disappeared on Wednesday after being caught in white-out conditions
during separate fishing trips.
The men, both from the village Sleat, on Skye, sparked a full-scale
land and sea search after failing to return home.
A Coastguard spokesman described the conditions as 'atrocious' and said
it was a miracle they survived.
John relived his ordeal last night.
He said: "Donald and I left the shore together to fish different areas,
but stay within sight of each other.
"There was no problem and then the snow came in. It was a complete
white-out.
"I couldn't see anything. We couldn't get our bearings. We couldn't see
the shore.
"I lost track of Donald after a bit and with all the snow and damp, my
engine cut out. I couldn't get it started again, no matter how hard I
tried.
"I was drifting, helpless whichever way the current or the wind would
take me. Eventually I found myself about 12 miles off the shore.
"There was no use shouting. I knew no one would hear me.
"I just had to keep warm and keep my spirits up. Fortunately, I had my
oil-skins on and they kept me fairly warm and dry.
"If I had anything which absorbed water, I would have been done for.
"There were a few scary moments. It was pitch dark with driving snow
but occasionally I was hit with a big wave. But it's a miracle I
managed to survive the night. Then when daylight came, there was still
a swell and a big wave overturned me.
"I was in the water for about half an hour when I managed to scramble
on to the keel of the boat. I was clinging on for dear life. Then I saw
the lifeboat and a fishing boat.
"It was the happiest moment of my life. You can't explain how it feels
when you realise your life is going to be saved. I don't think I would
have lasted much longer.
"I was never so pleased to see some folk. Then I got a helicopter trip
to the hospital. But I never got a dram to celebrate, just a cup of
tea.
"It was brilliant though. But now I will look forward to a good stiff
dram to celebrate Hogmanay - a New Year I thought I would never see."
Coastguard teams, aided by RAF rescue helicopters, failed to find any
trace of them as wintry conditions worsened on Wednesday. The search
was called off overnight but resumed at first light yesterday. Rescuers
were eventually rewarded just before lunch-time.
Donald's boat was found moored on Rubha Charn Nan Cearc, a peninsula on
the Isle of Skye, shortly after noon.
His footsteps were seen in the snow and a search party using sniffer
dogs located him just over a mile away.
Donald, who was equipped with warm waterproof gear, managed to speak
briefly about his ordeal last night.
He said: "I went out to go winkling about lunch-time and the weather
was not too bad. But then the snow came in. It was terrible. I couldn't
see a thing.
"I was sailing blindly and I thought the most common sense thing to do
was to head for shore.
"I must have sailed too far south because, when I beached the boat, I
didn't recognise any landmarks at all. The snow was driving down and
visibility was very poor. I tried to head inland to find something I
recognised to give me my bearings.
"But I was still disorientated and didn't really know where I was
heading. I just thought I would keep going."
Meanwhile John, who lives just a few doors away from Donald, was
counting his own blessings.
He was found clinging desperately on to his dinghy in icy waters eight
miles out to sea from Tarskavaig Bay around 30 minutes after his friend
was discovered.
Sergeant Dennis Hindman, of the Northern Constabulary, described the
sea rescue as "totally unbelievable".
He said the fishermen had not been interviewed by police but had spoken
to the crew who brought them to safety.
Sgt Hindman described the sea as "very, very cold".
Referring to Donald, he said: "He is very well indeed and had the sense
to keep going all night and did not rest and go to sleep.
"It is perhaps advisable if you have small boats not to be going out at
this time of year because dangers are present, and the end results are
often very tragic."
Unknown to either of the men or their rescuers, the search teams were
dealing with two separate incidents.
Originally it was thought that both men had gone fishing together, but
in separate boats.
A Coastguard spokesman said: "The two incidents were not connected, and
considering the weather, it is a double Christmas miracle that they are
both alive.
"As time went on, hope was fading. But it is fantastic news both have
survived."
Inspector Sandy Gray of Portree police said he had never known a rescue
like it.
He said: "I am absolutely amazed and delighted that the two men have
been found safe and well.
"Both have shown the strength of human resilience and the will to live
and it is very heartening they survived.
"I have never known anything like it locally."
Duncan Mackay, watch manager at Stornoway Coastguard, said: "We made
every effort to locate these two men this morning and are delighted
with the result.
"Incredibly, it is pure coincidence these two friends went missing at
the same time and were found within half-an-hour of each other.
"They are extremely lucky to be alive. They should have a very good New
Year."
An RAF spokesman said: "They were obviously suffering from hypothermia
but they were conscious.
"They were fortunate to be alive."
Sister Chrisann O'Halloran, of Broadford Hospital, where the men are
being treated, said both wanted to say how much they owed to rescue
services.
She said: "They want to say a big thank you to everyone who took part
in the search.
"Without that effort, they may not be recovering in hospital today."

**

FOOT LONG SPIDERS IN SCOTLAND

HeadLine: FOOT LONG SPIDERS IN SCOTLAND

Daily Record, 02/01/1999, p25
by SHAUN MILNE


IT SOUNDS like something dreamt up for a horror movie.
Millions of foot-long spiders crawling around Scotland.
But don't panic - because the spiders actually live 1500 feet below
the surface of the ocean.
The creatures were discovered by a team of scientists exploring the
Atlantic off the Shetlands.
They found that deep water around 80 miles from the coast stays below
freezing point all year round.
The scientists believe the water, which doesn't freeze because it's
salty, flows directly from the Arctic.
But their most amazing discovery was the strange spiders that live
there.
Joint team leader Dr Brian Bett, who is originally from Dumbarton,
said: "There is a very obvious difference in the creatures which live
in the colder waters than in the warmer area, which lies off the rest of the Scottish coast.
"The sea spiders are perhaps the most characteristic of the cold
areas, and these had been previously known to inhabit the Arctic Ocean
living even below its present day ice cap."
The team's research was the first ever detailed underwater
exploration of the Atlantic off our coasts and covered an area
equivalent to that of Scotland.
The 20 scientists from Britain's Oceanography Centre at Southampton
spent six months on board the research vessel, Charles Darwin.
The scientists, led by Dr Bett and his Aberdeen-born colleague Dr
Douglas Masson, used a high- tech piece of equipment known as TOBI,
towed behind the ship, to obtain images of the vast area of the ocean floor.
The £5million project was funded by a consortium of oil
companies interested in drilling under the Atlantic seabed.

**

YOU HAVEN'T A GHOST OF A CHANCE OF GETTING PAID

HeadLine: YOU HAVEN'T A GHOST OF A CHANCE OF GETTING PAID

Daily Record, 16/01/1999, p7
by SHAUN MILNE

A couple refused to pay up for their house because they claimed it
was haunted.
And now a judge will have to make legal history by ruling whether
there is such a thing as a ghost.
Andrew and Josie Smith claim they were terrorised by ghosts just six
weeks after moving into the house.
Mrs Smith saw a ghostly figure float across the room and even claimed
she was raped and attacked by the spirits.
She also claimed ghosts played havoc with electrical equipment in the
house.
The couple eventually called in a vicar in a bid to exorcise their
home.
The Smiths had arranged to pay for the house, Lowes Cottage in Upper
Mayfield, Staffordshire, in installments but refused to pay the last
£3500 in 1996 because of the hauntings.
They are now being sued by the previous owners, sisters Susan
Melbourne and Sandra Podmore.
They claim the haunting stories are nonsense and were made up from
"horror films and novels".
Yesterday Mrs Smith, 36, wept as she told Derby County Court how the
house made life hell for her, her husband and children Lindsey, 12,
Stephen, five, and Daniel, one.
She told how she was molested by a spirit in the middle of the night.
She said: "I felt very cold, dirty, as if I had been raped.
"Twice I felt as if I was being strangled and woke up choking."
Recalling one assault, she said: "It was gripping me round the
throat. I thought I was going to die. It was terrifying.
"I went to my mother's but then I spoke to a medium on the phone.
"She said a girl had been murdered in the house and the ghost was
showing me how she had died. That gave us the strength to go back."
Mrs Smith also claimed the house was plagued by mysterious smells.
She said: "There was a strong smell and we could find no explanation.
"My brother-in-law came with a camcorder and taped where the smell
was. When we played it back you could see mist where the smell was.
"A friend who is a member of the Spiritualist Church advised us to
place a wooden cross in salted water to get rid of the ghost. But when
we did, the smell was so vile, I wanted to vomit.
"I rang my friend and she said we had upset it."
The couple called in the Rev Peter Mockford, the vicar of Blurton,
Stoke- on-Trent, who blessed the house four times in a bid to exorcise
its violent spirits.
She said: "The first time he blessed it, it was quiet for a night but
then the paranormal phenomena returned.
"Electrical equipment failed, the immersion heater blew up, and my
daughter's tape player couldn't be turned off unless we unplugged it.
"The ghost was living with us. Every time you turned around it was
there.
"The second time the Reverend came, we put our hands on the wall. The
walls were seeping with water.
Mrs Smith also claimed she saw visions of a woman naked, bound and
gagged and of a 19th-century figure in flowing dress gliding across the
room.
Vicar Mockford told the court he was convinced there was paranormal
activity in the house.
He said: "The phenomenon was not experienced by the Smiths before
they moved in. I believe it is to do with the house."
However, Mrs Melbourne and Mrs Podmore said they had never seen a
ghost when they lived in the house.
Both were questioned by joiner Mr Smith, 35, who is representing
himself and his wife.
Mrs Melbourne, 40, said: "I have never experienced a ghost or come
across a haunted house."
The sisters' barrister Thomas Dillon suggested Mrs Smith's story had
been made up out of "horror films and novels".
Mr Dillon spoke of several similarities between their story and
sections of the book The Amityville Horror.
Mrs Smith said she had read the book but insisted her evidence was
truthful.
She said: "Myself and my husband also watched the film The Haunting.
Many things that happened there also happened to us. The Haunting was a
true story and so is ours."
Mr Dillon said the couple had "made a habit" of running away from
financial problems.
He said the Smiths withheld the last payment on the grounds of
"misrepresentation fraud".
He added: "The Smiths allege misrepresentation was made by Mrs
Melbourne when she told them she had lived there happily for years."
Judge Peter Stretton will now have to decide on the existence of the
paranormal.
If he finds for the Smiths, it will be the first time since the
Middle Ages that the existence of the supernatural has been recognised.
The case will continue on Monday.

**

DUNBLANE FURY OVER ZOE'S SICK SHOTGUN JOKE ON AIR

HeadLine: DUNBLANE FURY OVER ZOE'S SICK SHOTGUN JOKE ON AIR

Daily Record, 20/01/1999, p13
by SHAUN MILNE

DUNBLANE residents swamped BBC switchboards yesterday after radio
star Zoe Ball joked about blowing someone's head off with a gun.
The families claimed the comments on Zoe's Radio 1 morning show
reminded them of the massacre in the school gym almost three years ago.
One parent said he associated the joke with images he still saw in
his head of gunman Thomas Hamilton killing the 16 children and their
teacher.
Millions of shocked radio listeners, many of whom were driving their
young children to school, heard Zoe ask: "What do you do if someone is
running around your room with half their head?"
She added: "Stop laughing and reload."
Dozens of complaints were received by the BBC after the joke went
over the air.
And yesterday the father of one of the children killed in the Dunblane massacre in March 1996 demanded the BBC offer residents a "full and wholehearted apology".
The father, who asked not to be named, said: "I do not see the funny
side.
"She `jokes' about finishing someone off by reloading.
"That is what Thomas Hamilton did.
"He went back to finish the children off.
"I know that for a fact. This is sick."
Dunblane resident Gary McDonald also said he would be writing to the
BBC to demand an apology from Radio 1.
Mr McDonald, 40, said his daughter Lucy, 10, had been upset by the
nature of the joke.
He said: "I was absolutely gobsmacked.
"I drink with many of the parents and they have only just got on with
rebuilding their lives.
"The fact that someone could possibly find a joke like this amusing
is just horrifying.
"The whole nation was in mourning over the Dunblane tragedy but here
we are with someone on national radio laughing and joking over shooting
someone. It completely sickens me."
Zoe's radio show, which runs from 6.30am until 9am, is the most
popular morning programme on the airwaves.
Zoe, who also presents hit children's television show Live and
Kicking on Saturday mornings, took over the coveted early morning slot
from Chris Evans last year.
Her gun joke gaffe comes just a few days after a student teacher
caused controversy by staging a fake kidnap at a school near Dunblane.
Officials at Radio 1 yesterday offered an apology to Dunblane
residents for the on-air gag.
However, they insisted Zoe was only reading out a listener's joke.
A spokesman added: "Zoe was relaying jokes phoned into her show for a
feature on sexism and joke making.
"The comments were not about shooting children but we apologise for
any offence caused by what some people could find an insensitive
remark."

**

BATTLE FOR THE SEAS

HeadLine: BATTLE FOR THE SEAS

Daily Record, 26/01/1999, p15
by Shaun Milne

EXPERTS will today attempt to stem oil leaking from a battleship sunk
off Orkney in 1939.
They will try to attach a steel canopy over the hull of the Royal Oak
under 90ft of water in Scapa Flow.
The ship carried 1800 tons of fuel oil which has been steadily
leaking, threatening large numbers of seals and birds.
Engineers hope the canopy will act like an umbrella and trap the
leaking oil as it floats up from below.
If the plan works the trapped oil can be pumped into storage barges
at intervals and disposed of safely.
The Royal Oak was torpedoed and went down with the loss of 833 of its
1000 crew after a German U- boat managed to sneak past patrols under
the cover of darkness.
The 29,000-ton battleship is one of Britain's principal mass war
graves and the British Legion have been consulted about the work on the
leaks.
Orkney council first asked the Royal Navy to investigate when oil
began to be washed up three years ago.
Divers found the oil was gathering in pockets and pushing its way out
of gaps in the hull.
They fitted a metal patch over the main problem area as a temporary
solution.
Three years of research and experiment have followed to finally find
a solution to the problem.
The project team had to borrow the ship's original plans from the
Royal Navy Museum at Greenwich.
With the data gathered from divers working outside the hull, they
were able to set up a computer model to design and test the umbrella
canopy.
Briggs Marine, a specialist company based at Burntisland in Fife, was
awarded the £200,000 contract to end the leaks.
Bad weather has so far hampered their attempts to put the six-ton
steel construction in place around the ship.
But yesterday, they managed to tow the 30ft-by-12ft structure into
place above the wreck.
Special rivets will mean little welding or drilling needs to be done,
allowing the grave site to remain undisturbed.
The £1million study showed that the oil is leaking out into the
sea at just under a gallon an hour.
If no action is taken on the leaks, the fuel oil would run out in
about 15 years.
But the leaks have to be stopped because the immediate area is home
to at least a tenth of Britain's seal population, alongside wintering
sea birds such as grebe and divers.
If the leak worsened, it could threaten their habitat and the local
fishing and tourism industries.
Roger Tollervey, an environmental expert at the Ministry of Defence,
said: "We are excited at the prospect of significantly reducing the
pollution which rises to the surface and forms an almost-permanent sheen above the wreck.
"The oil we collect will be environmentally disposed of at the Flotta
oil terminal."
At the moment, most of the oil is dispersed by the natural action of
the sea.

**

PILOT AMY KILLED BY OWN SIDE

HeadLine: PILOT AMY KILLED BY OWN SIDE

Daily Record, 06/02/1999, p9
by Shaun Milne

THE mystery surrounding the death of famous pilot Amy Johnson has
finally been solved after almost 60 years - she was blasted out of the
sky by her own side.
Amy died after she baled out over the Thames Estuary during World War
II.
Eleven years earlier, she became the first woman pilot to fly solo
from England to Australia.
Now an ex-soldier has admitted she was shot down because she gave the
wrong codeword.
Tom Mitchell, 83, kept the secret for almost six decades, not wanting
to take responsibility for being one of the men involved in shooting
down the wartime heroine.
But when his sister died last year, his letters to her were returned
and the memories came flooding back.
"It's not something that I wanted to talk about, it's not something
that you want to advertise really," he said.
"All the events of that night came back to me."
He was convinced that historically he must let people know before he
dies.
"As I was reading through the letters the events of that night came
back to me and a friend at my social club said that I ought tell
people."
Mr Mitchell, form Crowborough in Kent, was serving with the 58th
Heavy Ack Ack Kent Regiment during the war.
He explained: "The reason Amy was shot down was because she gave the
wrong password over the radio," said Mr Mitchell.
"We all thought it was an enemy plane until the next day when we read
the papers and discovered the pilot was Amy Johnson."
"The officers called us around and told us to keep quiet about this
and never to tell anyone what happened."

**

Workers flee as fire hits shipyard gas tank

HeadLine: Workers flee as fire hits shipyard gas tank

Daily Record, 10/02/1999, p17
by Shaun Milne

HUNDREDS of shipyard workers were ordered to safety last night after
a blaze broke out on the site of a massive gas holder.
Nightshift staff were forced to abandon their posts shortly after
7.30pm at the UIE terminal at Inchgreen Road Dockyard in Greenock, amid
fears a massive blast could occur.
The alarm was raised when some of the 500 workers reported seeing
flames four feet high shooting from the side of the container.
The steel structure contained millions of cubic feet of methane gas
used for supplies in the area.
It was one of two tanks only yards from where the men were working.
Experts later revealed cabling used to heat a seal to keep the gas
from escaping had overheated.
That caused sparks and flames, which had to be isolated by
firefighters and specialist engineers.
One source said: "All it would have taken was for there to have been
a gas leak at the same time and the whole thing could have gone up.
"There are millions of cubic feet of methane gas in these things.
"The guys working on the rigs reported seeing four-foot high flames.
It could have been a lot worse."
Divisional fire officer George Kennedy said: "It was potentially a
very dangerous situation.
"We managed to contain it remotely but we had men on stand-by in case
anything happened.
"It was certainly a very interesting situation and could have been a
lot worse."
A Transco spokeswoman said the all-clear was given at around 10pm.
She added: "The problem will be investigated thoroughly in the
morning."

**

Crash coach driver wants belt-up laws

HeadLine: Crash coach driver wants belt-up laws

Daily Record, 25/02/1999, p30
by SHAUN MILNE

THE driver of a coach which plunged down an embankment injuring more
than 20 people has called for tough new laws forcing passengers to wear
seat belts.
Eric Wilson, 51, said if his passengers had been belted up, the
number of injuries would have been far less.
He also revealed how watching documentaries about airline crews had
helped him keep the 41 travellers calm immediately after the 12- ton
coach flipped onto its side.
He said: "I just started shouting for everybody to stay calm, told
them there was no fire, no leaking fuel and we'd come to a halt.
"I said if they started moving trying to get out then more people
would be injured so they should stay where they were, and to my
surprise that's what they did."
Eric, a former driving instructor, was driving the Allander Travel
single decker on Tuesday on the Glasgow to Stranraer route for Scottish
Citylink.
Witnesses said he tried to overtake a slow-moving tractor south of
the Heads of Ayr when a car tried to pull out at the same time causing
him to swerve.
The bus then hit a grass verge and toppled over onto its side,
tossing passengers around.
Several people in the bus were injured by passengers not wearing seat
belts falling and landing on top of them.
Eric, from Bearsden near Glasgow, said laws should be tightened up to
force passengers to wear seat belts on coaches where they are fitted.
At the moment bus and coaches capable of speeds of over 59mph or more
carrying school children must have seat belts fitted.
But there is no legislation forcing passengers to wear them in the
same way as car passengers have to.
Eric said: "You walk up and down the aisle and you see about a third
of passengers are wearing them.
"What is the point of having them fitted if there is no power to make
sure they are being worn. I'm not saying seat belts would have
prevented anyone being injured at all.
"But it would have kept people in their seats and stopped them
falling out landing on others.
"I would definitely back tougher laws though, especially involving
children."
Graham Wilson, who oversees maintenance for Allander, said: "We spend
£2500 on each bus getting them fitted with seat belts, but there
is no law forcing people to use them."
Three passengers were detained in Ayr Hospital overnight. An 18-year-
old woman was detained in Crosshouse Hospital with a slight head
injury.
Police said they were still carrying out inquiries into the accident.

It's a bombshell Sir...and Dad's got another 46

HeadLine: It's a bombshell Sir...and Dad's got another 46

Daily Record, 27/02/1999, p7
by SHAUN MILNE

A pupil brought panic to his school when he took an unexploded anti-
tank shell to class.
He then stunned police by telling them: "My dad's got loads more at
home."
The 14-year-old had been doing a history project on World War II.
He took the round in to show his teacher - who immediately told the
headmaster and called in the police.
The school was evacuated and cordoned off while other officers raced
to the boy's home. They found another 46 of the armour-piercing shells
in a lock-up.
Some had even been used as door-stops.
The drama began yesterday morning at the Turnbull High School in
Bishopbriggs, near Glasgow.
The pupil, Michael McCarthy, had asked his father John to let him
take one of the shells in to his history class.
But his teacher was alarmed by it and called the head, Neil Roarty.
Police instructed Mr Roarty to send the 900 pupils at the school home
while the grounds were cordoned off and guarded until the arrival of an
army bomb squad.
They carried the device out of the building and took it to safety.
Meanwhile police were at the McCarthy home in Edgefaulds Road.
They forced their way into the lock-up, beneath a high rise block of
flats, found the shells and left in a hurry.
The area was sealed off and passers-by and parents pushing prams were
prevented from getting within 300 yards of the scene.
Eleven on-call nurses were unable to get to their cars.
Traffic using a nearby access road was also ordered to divert.
Three hours after the alert was first raised the bomb squad finally
gave the all- clear and said the shells were not live.
Last night Michael seemed completely unfazed by the commotion he had
caused.
He said: "I couldn't believe what was happening. I just showed the
shell to my teacher, next thing the police are there. I got a real
fright as I thought I was in trouble.
"Some of the staff said I'd be getting a pat on the back from my
mates and a kick up the bum from the teachers. But with any luck I'll
get a good mark for my project."
Michael and John were questioned by police before being allowed home.
John said: "All this has been blown right out of proportion, it's
completely over the top.
"They're harmless. The mechanisms have all been taken out so they
can't explode even if fired.
"Michael wanted to take a shell into school for a project so I said
he could, no problem.
"They're completely harmless, I used them as door stops around the
house before the police took them away.
"They're armour-piercing anti-tank shells from World War II which I
got for nothing from a scrapyard.
"I've had them for about five years. I sell a lot of them down the
car boot sale. Collectors will pay around pounds 35 each for them.
"I just want to forget today. This is really embarrassing."
Strathclyde Police said there had been no danger to the public. A
spokeswoman said: "It is always better to err on the side of caution."

**

NINE-WEEK-OLD BABY IS HIT IN BRAIN BUG ALERT

HeadLine: NINE-WEEK-OLD BABY IS HIT IN BRAIN BUG ALERT

Daily Record, 04/03/1999, p11
by SHAUN MILNE

A BABY girl is among seven Scots children hit in a meningitis scare.
The nine-week-old was taken to Yorkhill Children's Hospital in
Glasgow yesterday to undergo tests.
Two of the baby's relatives, a girl, aged four, and boy, eight, all
from Glasgow, were also admitted, suspected of having the infection.
And a 14-year-old boy was in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary after being
treated for the bug. He is a pupil at the city's Oldmachar Academy, who
have informed other parents.
Last night, the three young children were said to be "well" by the
hospital and were being kept in for observation and any necessary
treatment.
Medics at Yorkhill were already investigating two earlier possible
cases of meningitis involving a boy and a girl.
Paul Ward, six, from Barmulloch, Glasgow, was later confirmed as
having meningococcal meningitis.
His sister Melissa, four, remains under close observation.
But their uncle James Ward, 17, of Barmulloch, was last night
fighting for his life at the city's Southern General Hospital.
Medical staff confirmed he had meningitis and described his condition
as being "serious but stable".
Yesterday afternoon, doctors took him off a ventilator but he
remained in intensive care.
His mother Mary and father James, both in their 50s, were at his
bedside.
James, a sixth-year pupil at All Saints Secondary School in
Barmulloch, was taken to hospital on Sunday when he became ill at home
in Zena Crescent.
Last night, sister Marie said: "He's still unconscious and has only
opened his eyes once and that was only for a split second."
A spokesman for the Southern General Hospital said James was "in a
serious but stable condition".
He added: "The six-year-old boy is stable and improving while the
four- year-old girl is satisfactory."
A health official said there appeared to be no link with the Ward
cases and the three others reported yesterday.
A Greater Glasgow Health Board spokeswoman said everything that
needed done was being done to cope with the separate situations on
their doorstep.
The number of meningococcal meningitis cases reported in Scotland
have gone up from 201 three years ago to 320 last year.
Symptoms include a sore neck, dislike of bright light and a
distinctive purplish coloured skin rash.
One test involves rolling a glass tumbler firmly over a blotchy skin
rash and if it remains visible parents are advised to seek help.
The Meningitis Research Foundation have a 24-hour freephone helpline
for parents. The number is: 0808 800 3344.

**

£136 COST OF VISITING THE DOME

HeadLine: £136 COST OF VISITING THE DOME

Daily Record, 19/03/1999, p23
by SHAUN MILNE

A SCOTS family of four will have to shell out at least £136 to
visit the Millennium Dome by train, it was revealed yesterday.
And that's before the cost of hotel rooms, food, ancillary travel and
other expenses are added on.
It means a visit to Greenwich, London, for a typical Scots family
from Glasgow, would work out at around £400.
But it could be more for anyone who has to travel to Glasgow first,
or from anywhere else in Scotland.
Organisers of the Millen-nium Experience were rounded on by consumer
watchdogs and the SNP over the prices.
A family ticket will cost £57 with the cheapest railfare for four costing £79 from Glasgow.
The National Consumers Council said it was too much and called for
children to be admitted for nothing.
A spokeswoman said: "Even in comparison to other exhibitions on in
London it does seem very expensive. I would have thought it was a
distinct possibility that people could be priced out of going at all.
"It does seem high especially as the Government is going out now and
saying all museums should be free.
"It is good that educational tours are going to be free but they
should extend that to all children."
Prime Minister Tony Blair backed out of revealing discounted rail
fares for Scots earlier this month.
SNP spokesman Kevin Pringle said: "The Dome has become a laughing
stock along with the people responsible for it.
"The Government made a big play of saying it was going to be for the
people, but it's not. It is for a very small number of individuals who
had the idea in the first place."
The standard single adult ticket for the £758million Dome will
cost £20.
Senior citizens will be charged £18 to get in while those on
Jobseekers' Allowance will pay £12.
Free entry will be granted to children on organised tours but that
concession will be restricted to those aged between eight and 16.
xVisitors leaving from Glasgow will pay £79 return for a party
of four on Virgin trains, £50 return each via Scotrail as part of
a B&B deal or £83.90 travel only for two adults and three children.
Other rail companies are expected to put packages together.
National Express are to offer tickets and travel to London from
anywhere in Britain for £29.99.
Chief executive of the Dome project, Jennie Page, said: "The prices
are extremely good value.
"We have deliberately structured our ticket prices to favour group
visits so that the biggest discounts are offered to people coming with
family and friends."
"Now that we have announced our ticket prices, other travel operators
will be announcing their special millennium deals shortly."
Tickets will not go on sale until September 22 although some packages
are already available.
Admission-paying members of the public will first be allowed through
the doors on January 2 2000, and the Dome will be open every day after
that until December 31 2000.

**

Man loses leg in work accident

HeadLine: Man loses leg in work accident

Daily Record, 20/03/1999, p27
by SHAUN MILNE

A MAN had his leg sliced off at the knee in an accident at work
yesterday.
William Brownlee, 45, screamed in agony as the industrial guillotine
blade cut clean through his right leg.
Paramedics had to perform emergency surgery at the scene to stem the
bleeding and he was hooked up to life-saving drips.
Mr Brownlee, of Bellshill, Lanarkshire, was later rushed to Monklands
and District General Hospital by ambulance where he underwent immediate
surgery.
It is understood a medical team attempted to re-attach the severed
limb but it was not known if the surgeons had been successful.
A hospital source said: "It was a very clean cut, so it is possible
but he lost a lot of blood."
The accident happened at Precon-Blocks in Hornock Road, Coatbridge,
Lanarkshire.
Mr Brownlee was attempting to place a block of concrete under the
blade when the accident happened.
Police and officials from the Health and Safety Executive were
investigating last night.
One theory being checked out was that a vehicle had reversed and
collided with the guillotine, causing the blade to fall.
A hospital spokeswoman said: "Mr Brownlee is in a stable condition."

**

Brain bug boy, 10, winning his fight for life

HeadLine: Brain bug boy, 10, winning his fight for life

Daily Record, 23/03/1999, p21
by SHAUN MILNE

A SCHOOLBOY struck down by suspected meningitis was last night
winning his fight for life.
The 10-year-old, of Livingston, West Lothian, is in intensive care at
Edinburgh's Sick Children's Hospital.
Two of his cousins, a boy aged six and a girl of nine, are being
treated at St John's Hospital in Livingston, suspected of having the
meningococcal strain of the brain bug.
All three attend Carmon-dean Primary School, Livingston, where
parents of the 433 other pupils were told of the scare on Friday.
West Lothian Council finally decided to name the school after worried
parents of children at other schools in the area complained they were
being kept in the dark.
Yvonne Allan, of Deans, Livingston, said: "We should be told which
children are involved.
"We don't know if our kids have been playing with the affected
youngsters."
Sheila Nicoll, of the town's Lindsay Avenue, said: "They should be
giving the children antibiotics.
"I don't think it is right that we don't know who the affected
children are."
Councillor Frank Anderson, SNP health spokesman, hit out at the way
Lothian Health have handled of the affair.
He said: "Parents all over West Lothian have been needlessly worried
all weekend because Lothian Health failed to identify the school.
"They should be carrying out a mass inoculation of pupils from nearby
schools."
Lothian Health declined to comment on the criticisms.
Officials said it would take another 24 hours to complete tests to
confirm whether the youngsters had meningococcal meningitis.
* Helplines are operated by both the National Meningitis Trust on 0845
6000 800 and the Meningitis Research Foundation on 0808 800 33 44 for
people seeking advice on the condition.

**

Jamie, 8 fights for life after roof fall

HeadLine: Jamie, 8 fights for life after roof fall

Daily Record, 25/03/1999, p17
by SHAUN MILNE

A BOY of eight was fighting for life last night after falling off a
school roof.
Jamie Gibson smashed his head against a concrete path at St Bernard's
Primary, Pollok, Glasgow.
Surgeons at the city's Southern General Hospital operated to remove a
blood clot from his brain.
Last night, Jamie was "very serious" in intensive care as surgeons
decided whether or not to remove a second clot.
His situation is complicated because he has a disorder which means
his body cannot generate enough antibodies to fight off infections.
Dad Jamie and mum Nicola, who have two other children, were at his
bedside.
Grandmother Isabel Lang, 51, said: "When he was younger they thought
he would need a bone marrow transplant. He gets check-ups every few
weeks."
Jamie had been playing with friends Christopher Lee and Ronald
Jamieson.
Christopher's grandmother, Margaret Lee, lives opposite the school.
She said: "They'd been warned already about going on the roof.
"They were hanging down when Jamie's foot got stuck in a metal grill
on a window.
"He just fell backwards about eight feet and hit the back of his head
against the concrete path."
A spokesman for Glasgow City Council said they were still trying to
establish what happened.
He added: "We do have preventative measures to
stop people climbing up but obviously he has been determined to do it."

**

Hutters call on God to save them

HeadLine: Hutters call on God to save them

Daily Record, 31/03/1999, p17
by SHAUN MILNE

A LONG-RUNNING eviction battle took a bizarre twist yesterday when a
court was told land belongs only to God.
Campaigner Alastair McIntosh lodged the divine defence on behalf of
one of 90 residents in dispute with their landlord.
Mr McIntosh said Allan Barns-Graham's eviction bid against the
hutters who live on his 1000-acre Carbeth estate should be thrown out.
Outside Stirling Sheriff Court, Mr McIntosh said: "Until such a time
as the Scottish Parliament chooses to change the laws, no one owns land
but God. That is reinforced by the Bible.
"Under the feudal system God stands at the apex of the feudal
pyramid. Scotland is legally God's own land.
"The authority of God is recognised both in the constitutional
instrument of Scotland and by the institutional legal writers.
"It underpins the laws of Scotland in general."
Religious experts claimed the defence could be seen as blasphemous.
Dr Joseph Houston, a divinity lecturer at Glasgow University, said:
"I am not so sure if the laws of the land can be over-ruled by claims
like these. The sheriff still has to administer the law."
The move is the latest development in the two-year battle over land
on the estate in Stirlingshire.
The picturesque huts were built there in the 1920s and used initially
as temporary accommodation for men returning from World War I.
Mr Barns-Graham's grandfather allowed them to live there in return
for a modest rent.
But over the last two years, the landowner has sent out eviction
notices.
Campaigners said he had unreasonably raised rents by up to 42 per
cent and was trying to destroy the hutters' way of life so he could
build a luxury holiday complex.
Last month, the residents were dealt a blow when a sheriff ruled in
favour of the landlord.
Mr McIntosh was in court yesterday to give evidence at the proof
hearing of 46-year-old resident Chris Ballance, who has been served an
eviction notice.
His case was backed by senior Church of Scotland minister Graham
Blount.
Father-of-two Mr McIntosh, of Kinghorn, Fife, was a founding member
of the Isle of Eigg Trust during the bid to buy the island between 1991
and 1997.
His great, great, grand-father, Murdo MacLennan, helped defeat
landowners 150 years earlier in Contin, near Inverness, to set up the
Free Church of Scotland.
Last night, Mr Barns-Graham said he wanted to see an end to the
dispute.
He added: "I have no plans for a holiday park."
The hearing before Sheriff Kenneth Pritchard continues.

**

HeadLine: Death sentence collie is cleared

HeadLine: Death sentence collie is cleared

Daily Record, 22/05/1999, p16
by SHAUN MILNE

A COLLIE sentenced to death for biting a 13-year-old girl was cleared
yesterday.
A JP had ordered two-year-old Sparkie to be put down after convicting
owner Robert Mackay of failing to control the dog.
However, the High Court in Edinburgh overturned the conviction
because of the bizarre way the JP handled the case.
Sparkie's ordeal began last November at Dornoch District Court in
Sutherland when JP Euan Currie pronounced Mr Mackay guilty without
hearing the defence case.
After prosecution evidence from the girl and her friend, defence
solicitor Ruben Murdanaigum submitted that there was no case to answer.
But instead of ruling on the submission, Mr Currie simply ordered
Sparkie to be put down.
The defence solicitor told Mr Currie his decision at that stage in
the proceedings had prejudiced his case and that his client felt he
could not go on to give evidence in defence of his pet.
The JP again went off to consider the case, and returned to again
pronounce Mr Mackay guilty and pass a death sentence on Sparkie.
Then, in a further strange twist to the case, after reading a letter
telling of Sparkie's previous good character and conduct, the JP lifted
the order that the dog be destroyed.
Instead, he ordered Mr Mackay, of Dornoch, to keep Sparkie under
control.
The Sutherland Justices Committee are now due to investigate the
issues surrounding the case next month.
Mr Currie, a Dornoch hotelier, admitted: "I might be in hot water for
I think I made a mistake in the handling of the case. I put my hands up
to that."
But he said he owned a cross collie dog himself and believed they
should not be kept as pets.
He said: "Go to any croft and a collie will nip your heels."
Mr Mackay, 42, said he was delighted at the High Court decision.
He said: "It is easy to sentence a dog to death when it is not your
own but pets mean a lot to some people.
"I am really chuffed because Sparkie and I have been cleared
officially. I have always said it was another dog that bit the lassie.
"During the trial my head was spinning, things were happening so
fast. Mr Currie seemed to go off at half-cock.
"They say every dog has his day but that was one hell of a day for a
wee dog, never mind me."

**

CRACKDOWN ON TOURISTS TO CUT ROAD CARNAGE

HeadLine: CRACKDOWN ON TOURISTS TO CUT ROAD CARNAGE

Daily Record, 29/06/1999, p17
by SHAUN MILNE


FOREIGN motorists are the target of a new drive launched yesterday to
cut the death and accident toll on Scottish roads.
Holidaymakers forgetting to drive on the left in Britain cause almost
one in three accidents in parts of the country during peak season,
according to research.
Dashboard stickers urging drivers to "Keep Left" have been printed in
German, Spanish, French and Italian and put inside road safety
leaflets. They will be sent to tourist information centres, car hire firms and hotels.
It also advises them to use passing places on single track roads and
warns to be alert for wandering animals like sheep and deer.
The campaign comes because Highland beauty spots share the worst road
safety record in Britain along with Devon and Cornwall. Foreign drivers
are in many crashes.
Northern Constabulary have calculated that in the past year foreign
tourists were involved in 88 accidents in which one person died.
Another 36 were seriously hurt, and 51 were slightly hurt. There were
also 236 damage-only accidents involving foreign tourists.
The Scottish Road Safety Campaign - who produced the leaflets - and
police claim tourists forget or become confused about driving in the UK
and end up on the wrong side of the carriageway.
Northern Constabulary and key safety groups joined Scottish Executive
transport minister Sandra Boyack MSP yesterday to launch the "Keep
left" campaign at a tourist lay-by at Kessock Bridge, near Inverness.
Sandra Boyack said: "Crashes and near-misses are regularly caused by
drivers who fail to keep left after a stretch of single-track road, or
revert to the right after visiting an attraction.
"The influx of summer visitors to Scotland means more drivers on our
roads, and unfortunately this is accompanied by a rise in the number of
accidents involving foreign drivers.
"At the height of the tourist season, around 10 per cent of all road
crashes involve drivers from abroad, and on some roads in the Highlands
and Argyll this rises to nearly 30 per cent.
"The 'Keep Left' dashboard sticker in the leaflet is designed to act
as a constant reminder to drive on the safe side of the road, for their
own sake and that of other road users".
Special "Keep Left" signposts have already been erected in some
accident blackspots as part of the campaign.
The AA motoring group welcomed the campaign.
Policy manager Neil Grieg said: "We would prefer foreign tourists to
remember Scotland for its stunning scenery and friendly locals rather
than its accident and emergency units."

**

Ignorance of laws can lead to deaths

HeadLine: Ignorance of laws can lead to deaths

Daily Record, 29/06/1999, p17
by SHAUN MILNE

IGNORANCE of British driving laws among foreign motorists has been a
cause of serious accidents on Scotland's roads.
In one case, Frenchman Rene le Berre, 46, was charged with killing
Michael Thomson, 36, of Ardgay, after driving his car on the wrong side
of the road in Sutherland.
He was killed himself on the way to the court case when his lawyer,
Jacques Le-Brusq, made the same mistake.
Colin Strang, 21, of Perth, and his girlfriend Louise Morrall, of
Kirkhill, near Inverness, were also killed in the accident.
Le-Brusq, of Brittany, was charged with causing death by dangerous
driving but later admitted careless driving and was fined pounds 1000.
Another French tourist Alain Letendre, also of Brittany, critically
injured a two-year-old boy when he did a U-turn at a lay-by and ended
up on the wrong side of the road.
His car collided head on with another being driven by the boy's
doctor mother, which was coming round a bend on the Kincardine to
Rosyth road, near Dunfermline, in Fife.
Dr Sophie Jans and a passing nurse battled to save the life of her
son Aeden, two.
Letendre, 49, was fined £250 at Dunfermline Sheriff Court and
had six penalty points placed on his licence.
Last year, trucker Gordon Ainslet, 30, rescued German tourists from a
car crash in the on the A82 Inverness to Fort William road.
He used a rope tied to his lorry to drag the couple trapped in their
car away from the scene seconds before the other vehicle involved
exploded.

**

BOY, 16, BRINGS DIY BOMB INTO SCHOOL

HeadLine: BOY, 16, BRINGS DIY BOMB INTO SCHOOL

Daily Record, 30/06/1999, p13
by SHAUN MILNE

A BOY walked into a school with a home-made bomb yesterday.
The 16-year-old said he learned how to make it on the Internet.
A bomb disposal team were called in and staff evacuated Stranraer
Academy of 1200 pupils.
Police sealed off the area and warned nearby residents to stay in
their homes while they diverted traffic away from the school.
The bomb team from Glasgow made the device safe without the need for
a controlled explosion.
The boy said he made it as an experiment.
A police spokesman said yesterday: "The matter is now the subject of
a criminal inquiry. The device appears to have been made by the youth
concerned.
"There is no suggestion of any sinister intent on his part.
"There is no connection with any terrorist activities."
A CID source said: "Apparently, he just brought it into school and
said he had made it from plans on the Internet."
Last night, police confirmed two youths - one an 18-year-old former
pupil - had been arrested.
A spokeswoman added: "No charges have been brought at this stage."
Education chiefs promised a full investigation.
Dumfries and Galloway director of education Fraser Sanderson said:
"This is a serious incident. Staff and pupils deserve credit for the
measured way they carried out the emergency procedures."
A council spokeswoman said they expected the school to reopen as
usual today.
Information on bomb-making can be accessed on the Internet in seconds.
Guides to constructing pipe and nail bombs, similar to the devices
which exploded in London's Soho and Brixton in May, can be found on a
wide range of American websites.
And publications like The Improved Munitions Handbook and the
Anarchists' Handbook offer web advice on making small arms, mortars and
incendiary devices and the explosives to go with them.
Cross-Atlantic Internet chat sites also offer information for would-be bomb-makers, with American anarchists often downloading banned information and e-mailing it to their British counterparts.
In May this year, the Government pledged to "keep open" the prospect
of further regulation to crack down on Internet sites giving advice on
bomb-making and other criminal and anti-social activities.
Trade and Industry minister Ian McCartney told the Commons there was
"much more" that could be done internationally to control the spread of
potentially harmful information.

**

MY BOSS IS WAITING FOR A PASSPORT TOO

HeadLine: MY BOSS IS WAITING FOR A PASSPORT TOO

Daily Record, 02/07/1999, p13
by SHAUN MILNE

THE man who has perhaps had the longest wait to get his hands on a
British passport, Harrods boss Mohamed Al Fayed, yesterday offered tea
and sympathy o the crowds queueing for hours to get theirs.
A green liveried Harrods van distributed free tea, coffee and soft
drinks to the desperate queuers caught in the passport chaos.
Al Fayed has been waiting for his own passport for five years after
successive Home Secretaries have turned down his request for British
citizenship.
The tycoon, who has appealed against Home Secretary Jack Straw's most
recent decision not to grant him a British passport, said: "These poor
people have my full sympathy and support.
"The bureaucracy is appalling. People are being made to queue up to
join yet another queue.
"Standing in line on the street for days on end to collect a passport
is a daunting prospect and certainly more than I could bear. I just
wanted to show solidarity with the long suffering public and do something to ease their burden.
"I hope they will enjoy a drink on me and share my little joke."
On Wednesday, Straw banned passport workers from taking time off to
compete in a sports day in an effort to stem the shambles.

**

Festival goes for the grey pound

HeadLine: Festival goes for the grey pound

Daily Record, 13/07/1999, p12
by Shaun Milne

SCOTLAND'S biggest arts festival yesterday revealed their new target
audience - pensioners.
The Edinburgh International Festival announced a 25 per cent discount
for OAPs for the first time.
The Festival Society say the move is being introduced to ensure the
event is "accessible to everyone".
But sceptics believe it is to try and avoid last year's debt problems
by targeting an audience with money and time.
Last year, the festival ran up a deficit of £118,587.
With students already being allowed into many events at half price,
it was difficult to see where this year's profits could come from.
One insider said: "Students flock to the performances but do not
spend a lot of money.
"The only other group with time on their hands during the day is OAPs
and they are more likely to splash out.
"The discount will hopefully ensure old people come to the shows,
despite the modern youth image, and contribute to its financial
success."
Festival organisers have moved into new premises at The Hub in the
city and announced a programme line- up with modern music and a 50 per
cent discount for young people.
Festival spokesman John Higgins said: "The idea came about because we
wanted to make the festival more accessible - and, yes, attract more
sales."
Phyllis Herriot, 73, of the Scottish Pensioners' Forum said: "Any
kind of discounts are always a good idea, especially when they help old
people become part of what's going on in Edinburgh."

**

Celtic back call to send shirts to refugees

HeadLine: Celtic back call to send shirts to refugees

Daily Record, 17/08/1999, p3
by SHAUN MILNE

THOUSANDS of faulty Celtic strips which were to be destroyed by
makers Umbro could now be sent to refugees.
Club officials are to push for them to be sent to war-scarred Kosovo
instead of being scrapped.
Although the sub-standard jerseys can't be sold in the UK, aid
workers insist they could be put to good use.
And a Celtic spokesman said: "It's a good idea and one the club would
support."
Last week, Umbro said they would have to scrap 60,000 of the tops.
They ordered a recall of shirts on sale after a Record investigation
revealed faults with the quality of fibre.
Tests showed the tops bobbled when washed.
It also emerged Umbro had dropped a Scots factory, which supplied
polyester for the jerseys, in favour of an Egyptian sweatshop.
Scottish International Relief boss Ann Turner said yesterday: "It
would be criminal for so many jerseys to be destroyed at a time when so
many people are in need.
"In the refugee camps all the children play football. They know clubs
like Celtic and a top like this would give a huge lift. Refugees in
Kosovo would welcome the tops."
Umbro say they are still to reach a decision on the strips.
Meanwhile, the Tartan Army will leap into action to help the people
of Bosnia at next month's Euro qualifier.
Around 250 fans travelling to the Scotland v Bosnia match in Sarajevo
are taking shoe boxes full of aid.
They will be filled with items difficult to get like toothpaste,
soap, shampoo and other hygiene goods.

**

Satellite switch spells chaos for sailors

HeadLine: Satellite switch spells chaos for sailors

Daily Record, 17/08/1999, p11
by SHAUN MILNE

A TIMING switch in high-tech navigation equipment could throw sailors
and pilots into chaos.
The satellite-controlled Global Positioning System used to pin-point
positions to within a matter of feet is to be reset to the "year zero"
next weekend.
The GPS has kept track of since its launch in 1980, up to a maximum
of 1024 weeks. It's now on week 1023.
On Saturday, it will roll over to zero - giving a problem to any user
whose equipment has not been programmed to cope.
The system was developed by the US military in the 1970s to allow
troops to determine their position anywhere in the world with
unprecedented accuracy.
The system has been adapted to a wide variety of civilian uses
including shipping and light aircraft.
Yachtsmen said yesterday they were confident traditional seafaring
skills would see them through any problems that might result.
John Lewis, a director for transatlantic yacht races, said: "If it
gives false readings, there should be back-up navigation.
"Realistically, everyone should have a chart on board and should be
plotting their course."
And round-the-world yachtsman Sir Robin Knox-Johnston said: "At the
back of GPS, you should always rely on your traditional aids.
"People will need to focus a little more on their dead reckoning
while the wobble sorts itself out.
"Hopefully there will be no accidents and people will be sensible."

**

WHO'LL WEAR TROUSERS IN JO'S SCHOOL?

HeadLine: WHO'LL WEAR TROUSERS IN JO'S SCHOOL?

Daily Record, 01/09/1999, p15
by SHAUN MILNE

A MOTHER is taking a school to court because they won't let her
daughter wear trousers.
Claire Hale is furious over the school's dress code which requires
14-year-old Jo to wear a skirt.
Now her bid to have the rule overturned under the Sex Discrimination
Act is being supported by the Equal Opportunities Commission.
Governors at Whickham Comprehensive in Gateshead, Tyneside, insist
the dress code is vital to maintaining discipline.
Under the Sex Discrimination Act, different dress codes for males and
females are allowed but only if they do not disadvantage either sex.
Claire, 47, professor in health care studies at Leeds University,
claims girls are disadvantaged by having to wear skirts as trousers
would be warmer, more practical and cheaper.
She said yesterday: "Girls should be allowed to keep warm in winter
and wear trousers to do so.
"I don't think teenage girls should be sitting down and saying these
are the rules and they must always be like this - we can do nothing
about them.
"Clearly you can do something about them but sometimes it takes a lot
of effort."
The Equal Opportunities Commission said they were supporting Claire's
case so the law on the issue could be clarified.
A spokeswoman said: "A lot of women are allowed to wear trousers to
work so why shouldn't a child be allowed to wear them to school?
"We want to help get clarification on the reasons why girls should
not be allowed to wear trousers and what this means about the
stereotyped assumptions about girls."
Yesterday, the commission were preparing to send letters to the
Department for Education and Employment and to the school, outlining
why they were supporting the case.
Claire - who moved from Irvine, Ayrshire, to Gateshead eight years
ago - added: "The school will have a couple of months to respond and
come up with an arrangement which would avoid the need to go to court."
However, the school governors were yesterday standing by their dress
code.
Parent governor Peter Maughan said: "I am obviously disappointed by
the decision of the EOC to back the case.
"I do not share the view that this is an equal opportunities issue
and neither does the board of governors.
"This pupil has the same educational opportunities as any other pupil
and if she didn't, I would be the first to get on to the EOC."
Maughan said the uniform set Whickham Comprehensive apart from other
schools.
He said: "We turn out smart and well-disciplined pupils, which is
part of the reason we have an excellent academic record. Other parents
are irritated that Mrs Hale is pursuing this case, when it was she who sought out the school and was fully aware of the dress code."
He added the case could have "very serious financial implications"
for the school.
He said: "If we go to court and lose, it could be the difference
between having a teacher and doing without a teacher next year.
"The ironic thing is the girl whose name this action is being brought
under could end up damaging the very school which she attends."

**

HeadLine: Tears and smiles as refugee family take baby

HeadLine: Tears and smiles as refugee family take baby

Daily Record, 03/09/1999, p21
by SHAUN MILNE

A BABY born in Scotland after his refugee parents fled the war in
Kosovo flew home yesterday.
But for little Toni Bislimi and his family there was sadness as well
as joy as they prepared to leave their temporary home in Glasgow.
The family say they can never repay the kindness shown to them since
they arrived in Scotland after fleeing Serb death squads in Pristina.
Toni's mother Sanije, 41, said: "It will be great to be back. But we
are sad too.
"We will never forget our time in Scotland or the people. Everybody
has been so warm to us. We thank them from the bottom of our hearts."
Sanije, 41, husband Enver, 47, and their three other young children
moved into a 12th floor flat in a Sighthill tower block six months ago.
Toni - who was named after Prime Minister Tony Blair in honour of his role with NATO in Kosovo - was born in May.
The family face an uncertain future. They do not know if their
relatives are still alive or even if their house is still standing.
The Scottish Refugee Council organised for them to travel to a
rendezvous point in Huddersfield, Yorkshire on Wednesday, where Army
experts briefed them on mine awareness. They then went on to Manchester for their flight home.
Of the 350 Kosovar refugees brought to Scotland, around 270 remain in
Glasgow and Renfrew.

**

MINKY THE 3-LEGGED HAMSTER PEGS OUT

HeadLine: MINKY THE 3-LEGGED HAMSTER PEGS OUT

Daily Record, 21/09/1999, p3
by SHAUN MILNE

AS hamsters go, Minky was definitely the adventurous type.
Despite having only three legs, he ran the gauntlet with the family
cat, walked into blazing fires and even survived a murder attempt after
being mistaken for a rat.
So when Minky finally met his spectacular end, his devoted owners
were determined to remember him with a fitting tribute.
After much soul-searching they had him stuffed and mounted in a
pirate pose, complete with sword in one paw, goblet in the other and a
wooden peg to replace his missing leg.
He still has the rather stunned expression he was wearing when he was
electrocuted after chewing through a TV cable. But Minky's owners Mike
Venus and Fiona Tennick say he would have been proud.
Fiona, 28, said: "We had him stuffed and mounted in a way he would
have wanted.
"The taxidermist thought we were mad but it was something we wanted
to do.
"We got the goblet from a Christmas cracker, made the sword from an
old nail and I carved the wooden leg myself."
Minky now stands on a plinth at the couple's antiques shop in Barnard
Castle, County Durham.
Fiona added: "He was only about a year old when he died, but he led a
charmed life.
"He was born with three legs but he never let it hold him back.
"He used to pinch the cat's food when its back was turned, which
never seemed advisable.
"And he used to climb under the fire grate while it was lit and come
out with singed whiskers.
"Once Minky nearly got stood on by the pizza delivery man who thought
he was a rat.
"And he used to climb up the curtains and shoot along the pole at the
top, which can't have been easy with three legs."
Mike, 38, added: "We used to give him the run of the house and he
went wherever he wanted.
"If he'd had four legs I wouldn't have been able to catch him at all
- he would have been like lightning.
"After his unfortunate accident we wanted to give him a fitting
tribute. Now he looks terrific."
Minky had many haunts in the house, but his favourite was Mike's
bushy beard, where he used to sit and watch TV.

**

EIGHT FIREMEN CHARGED WITH NEGLECT

HeadLine: EIGHT FIREMEN CHARGED WITH NEGLECT

Daily Record, 21/09/1999, p23
by SHAUN MILNE

EIGHT firemen have been charged with neglect of duty following a
blaze in which a 21-year-old woman was killed.
They will face a disciplinary hearing next month and could be kicked
out of their jobs.
The case involves a fire almost two years ago when Amanda Duncan died
in her flat.
Neighbours heard her desperate screams for help but four firemen who
searched the building failed to find her.
At a fatal accident inquiry last March, Sheriff Richard Davidson
branded the firefighters as "amateurish".
He also accused three of them - sub-officer David Anderson and
firefighters Iain Robertson and Graham Webster - of lying to cover up
their failings.
Anderson and Robertson are among the eight now facing action from
Tayside Fire Brigade.
The others are divisional officer Alasdair Hay, assistant divisional
officer Alan Carrie, station officer George Allan and firemen Mark
McArthur, Richard Horsburgh and Ian Baird.
Robertson, McArthur, Horsburgh and Baird were the four who couldn't
find Amanda during the search of the flat in Cardean Street, Dundee.
During the inquiry, the firefighters claimed they didn't realise
there was anyone in the flat.
But other witnesses talked of hearing a female voice screaming for
help and Sheriff Davidson said it was clear some firemen must have
heard her.
He told the inquiry: "I trust that those who have lied to this inquiry to cover up their own failures will reflect on the enormity of what they have done and on their contribution to the untimely demise of an attractive young
woman."
The procurator fiscal in Dundee has still to decide whether to bring
criminal charges against any of the firemen involved.
But the four will face disciplinary hearings on October 25 when they
will be represented by their union.
Amanda's parents, who are planning to sue Tayside Fire Brigade, said
they hoped the hearings would establish the truth about their
daughter's death.

**

Mothers' way for brighter babies

HeadLine: Mothers' way for brighter babies

Daily Record, 11/10/1999, p23
by SHAUN MILNE

MOTHERS who want their children to have the best start in life should
stay at home to look after them.
Then they can return to work after the child's first birthday,
according to a new study.
Children aged one to four who have working mothers are likely to be
good at maths and less aggressive, the research commissioned by former
Social Security Secretary Harriet Harman revealed.
But if a mother goes back to work before her baby reaches his or her
first birthday, it's claimed the child is likely to be worse at
reading.
The indications are that from the age of one it makes no difference
to most children whether they are looked after by a nanny, a child
minder or a relative.
The research, in conjunction with the Smith Institute, used
information on 11,000 adults born in 1958 and their children sampled by
the National Child Development Survey.
Harman will now urge Chancellor Gordon Brown to bring in a "baby tax
credit" - up to £70 a week - similar to the childcare tax credit
now available for older children.

**

CARDINAL'S CASH WILL BUY US PRAM

HeadLine: CARDINAL'S CASH WILL BUY US PRAM

Daily Record, 12/10/1999, p11
by SHAUN MILNE

THE father of the 12-year-old girl being paid by the Catholic Church
not to have an abortion is delighted with the cash support.
The unemployed dad, who is a Catholic, asked the Pro Life Initiative
in Scotland for help because of money worries.
He said he could not support the girl and her baby at home.
And when the charity led by Cardinal Thomas Winning agreed to provide
backing, the girl's father told neighbours: "We've been given a grant,
we've got money. It's great."
The girl's father told friends the money was to be used to buy
essentials such as a cot, pram and clothes for the baby at their home
on the run-down council estate in Torquay, Devon.
However, his pregnant daughter has been taken into care by the local council and handed over to foster parents.
The move came three weeks ago when it emerged the girl's 15-year-old
boyfriend had made her pregnant. The girl, who can't be named because
of a legal ban, is now 23 weeks pregnant.
Abortions cannot be carried out after 24 weeks, leaving her just days
to decide the unborn child's fate.
Police are still to decide whether to take any action against her
teenage boyfriend.
Meanwhile, Torbay council has set up a special steering group
involving social services, education officials and the police to
discuss what is best for the girl.
She was advised by teachers and social workers to terminate the
pregnancy because of her age.
But her parents contacted the Catholic Church in Scotland.
Pro Life co-ordinator Roseann Reddy said the girl's father would have
been "devastated" if she had to get rid of the baby simply because they
could not support her.
She refused to ask the parents if they would be willing to explain
why they are letting the schoolchild to carry on with her pregnancy.
But she said: "The parents wanted to support the girl but could not
afford the baby clothes."
Monsignor Tom Connelly, the church spokesman in Scotland, said: "The
major concern is that the girl is not suffering in any way."
Torbay Borough Council said: "We are in the position now that we are
charged with the girl's care, but Pro Life are refusing to tell us
whether or not they are involved. They are withholding information."
The Pro Life Initiative has offered support to the mothers of about
200 babies since it was set up two years ago.
Anne Weyman, chief executive of the Family Planning Association, said
girls should receive unbiased advice about abortion.
She said: "Offering financial incentives in the initial stages to
keep a baby is ignoring the long-term difficulties that teenage mothers
often face - disrupted education, isolation, poverty, depression."
But Josephine Quintavalle, of the Pro-Life Alliance, said the
church's scheme offered schoolgirls caught in this situation a real
choice.
She also claimed the current sex education programme in Britain was
not working.
He said: "We have to get programmes that look at self-respect rather
than throwing condoms and pills at 12-year-olds."

**

THE BEER IS DEAR IN THIS DIVE

HeadLine: THE BEER IS DEAR IN THIS DIVE

Daily Record, 12/10/1999, p24
by SHAUN MILNE

A DEEP sea diver who salvaged a 105-year-old bottle of beer took a
swig - before he realised it was worth £1000.
But Jim Phillips has no regrets about downing his most expensive pint
because it was just one of several bottles found on a sunken ship.
The 51-year-old was part of a team diving for long-lost treasure on
the Loch Shiel, which went down off the Welsh coast on Hogmanay 1894
after leaving port in Glasgow.
He found the barnacle-encrusted bottle hidden among weeds and
timbers. And when the cork popped as soon as it was brought to the
surface, there was just one thing real ale lover Jim could do - drink it.
He said: "There was a very strong smell of hops but it didn't put me
off taking a swig.
"It was flat and a bit sour but it hadn't been contaminated by salt
water even after all these years."
He added: "I don't know what brand the beer was since the label had
come off but we're sure it came from Glasgow."
Jim later had the bottle valued, along with six others found at the
same time, and discovered they were each worth £1000.
But he remains unrepentant about sampling the tipple. He said: "Even
though one's been drunk I'll not cry about it."
The 1218-ton Loch Shiel was bound for Australia when gales blew up.
Captain Thomas Davies headed for shelter at Milford Haven but misread
his charts and struck Thorne Island at full sail.
No one died but records show there were 7500 cases of whisky and 7000 cases of beer on board.
At the time, locals and divers retrieved most of the cargo but some
bottles went undiscovered.
And it was only when Jim and a team from the Swansea-based
Adventurous Divers Club decided to take a fresh look eight metres below
sea level that the ale came to light.
And the divers were lucky to make their find as visibility is down to just half a metre in the murky waters.
Club chairman Phil Latham, 46, said: "The club was told not to bother
with the wreck because everything had gone years ago.
"But a well- researched team of divers can get results." And it's not
the first time Jim's found treasure in the seas. He said: "A few years
ago, I found some
85-year-old wine at a different site. That was a nice little number
too."
Since the Loch Shiel's owner is not known, the divers notified the
Official Receiver of the find.
The bottles, which are of different sizes and may contain different
kinds of beer, will now be put up for auction.

**

ABORTION GIRL ON PROTECTION LIST

HeadLine: ABORTION GIRL ON PROTECTION LIST

Daily Record, 13/10/1999, p19
by SHAUN MILNE

THE 12-year-old being paid by the Catholic Church in Scotland to keep
her baby is on the police child- protection register.
But the local force are taking no action against the 15-year-old boy
who has fathered the child because no complaint has been made against
him.
The register is used to keep track of youngsters police consider to
be vulnerable.
The schoolgirl, now almost 24 weeks pregnant, was put on the list
after running away on a number of occasions.
A police insider said: "The girl is known to us already because she
has a history of running away.
"But there is nothing on record about these allegations, or to show
that we are involved in any way, or even to show that she is pregnant."
Police admitted they are not planning to investigate the 15-year-old
over allegations he is the father as a result of underage sex.
A spokesman for Devon and Cornwall Police said: "We are aware of the
case and are working with the social services and other agencies in the
best interests of the girl and her baby.
"No complaint has been made to us therefore we do not intend to take
any action. If a complaint is received then it will be dealt with in
the appropriate manner."
The girl's Roman Catholic father, who is unemployed, contacted
Cardinal Thomas Winning's Pro Life Initiative asking them to step in to
help his daughter with the birth,
He said he was unable to support her financially and that aborting
the baby would leave them devastated.
The Pro Life initiative agreed to offer support after a series of
telephone calls and letters were exchanged.
Afterwards, the relieved girl's father said: "We've been given a
grant, we've got money, it's great."
Pro Life agreed to offer the means to ensure items such as a cot,
pram and baby clothes would be provided for the child.
It was suggested yesterday that the girl's parents may adopt the baby but the council refused to comment on the claim.
Father Tom Connelly, spokesman for the Catholic Church in Scotland,
said: "To date, not a single person who has had a child after coming to
the scheme has offered it up for adoption."
Torbay Borough Council have set up a steering group to work out how
best to care for the girl who officials have placed with a foster family.
But they refused to say if they knew of any plans the girl's parents
may have to adopt their grandchild.
Officials would not comment on whether or not they would be making a
complaint to the police about the baby's father.

**

Scottish and with no children to use up your

HeadLine: Scottish and with no children to use up your
cash .. it doesn't get any better than that

Daily Record, 18/10/1999, p8&9
by SHAUN MILNE


CHILDLESS twentysomethings and older couples whose offspring have
left home are the happiest people in Britain, a "feelgood index"
claimed yesterday
And if they live in Scotland they are even more content as it ranks
just behind Wales as the happiest part of Britain, according to a
quarterly LifeIndex survey of 6000 Britons.
The new system of measuring the mood of Britain by banking giant Lloyds TSB and the Henley Centre, awards points according to answers to statements.
These include satisfaction with work and home, good health, money
worries, crime fears, spare time, stress, loneliness, noise and other
factors.
A mark of one to 10 is awarded as the answer to each statement and an average gives the LifeIndex rating.
No kids means more time, less pressure and, often, more money, says
the report.
Those in their twenties, and yet to start a family, along with the
over-fifties whose children have flown the nest, both scored 7.1
points, the highest in the survey.
The average for the country as a whole is 6.4, while mothers
of young families score the lowest at 5.4 and busy but unambitious
parents just 5.5.
Wales is the happiest place to live, scoring 7.4, followed by
Scotland at 7.2 - both well above the national average.
Both countries had fewer worries about crime and stress while
Londoners are the unhappiest, scoring just 5.3.
Lloyds TSB head of customer research Alison Freund said: "This research highlights the different priorities people have in their lives and how these factors can impact on their overall happiness.
"People in Britain are increasingly trying to find a balance in their
lives - not just between work and family life but also wider concerns
for their environment and the future of the country.
"In order to help our customers we need to understand the day to day
pressures on their lives."
The Lloyds TSB LifeIndex split the 6,000 people it surveyed into
eight different categories.
These included what the report called "Tribal Twenties" - young,
unmarried and with no responsibilities, through to "Parenting
Grandparents", older people devoted to their close-knit families.
Other groups included "Job Junkies" to describe those obsessed by their careers, "Fifty Focused and Free" for those whose kids had left home and "Weary Why Mes" which were those of all ages who felt unfulfilled.
The remaining categories are "Mums on the Run" - happy but hassled
women, the "Doing My Bit Brigade" - religious and community helpers -
and "Fulfilment Seekers", not bothered by material wealth.

**

STUDENTS EAT LIVE GOLDFISH AS PRANK

HeadLine: STUDENTS EAT LIVE GOLDFISH AS PRANK

Daily Record, 20/10/1999, p11
by SHAUN MILNE

SICK students ate live goldfish as part of a traditional Freshers'
Week stunt.
Now the Glasgow University undergraduates could face police action
after complaints from animal rights protesters.
The two students were urged to eat the fish kept in a pint of water
as part of the student union's final of the annual Iron Stomach
competition.
Like a scene from the film A Fish Called Wanda, where crazed Kevin
Kline plucks a goldfish out of the tank and eats it to frighten animal
lover Michael Palin, one fresher chewed on the live fish.
It's believed the first-year, identified only as Bob, fell ill for
several days after.
The other finalist, third-year Simon Alexander, tipped his fish on to
a table, struck it and killed it before placing it in his mouth.
But he gagged on the dead fish and was forced to concede defeat.
Yesterday Simon, the union's entertainments convener, admitted taking
part in the stunt. He said: "I tried to eat it but I couldn't."
But Animal Concern's John Robins attacked the prank.
ohn blasted: "This is absolutely horrendous and I have asked the
police and the university principal's office to investigate it.
"These students should be getting psychiatric treatment for what
they've done which is not only cruel to the goldfish but harmful to
their own health.
"They obviously have no real regard for animal life and while
students are entitled to be a bit mad during Freshers' Week they are
not entitled to be cruel."
SSPCA bosses also criticised the students and said they could have
broken the law. The organisation's chief inspector, Michael Flynn,
said: "If the goldfish was live at the time, they could have committed an offence under the Protection of Animals act.
"This makes it an offence to cause unnecessary suffering to captive
or domestic animals. It all depends if the fish was dead before it was
eaten."
The maximum penalty for causing unnecessary suffering to animals is a
£5000 fine or six months in prison.
A university spokesman said they were looking into the matter.
He said: "Any complaints arising from such an incident would be
investigated under the university's disciplinary procedures."
A police spokesman said they would investigate once a complaint is
received.
The university's union president John Paul Toner explained the Iron
Stomach contest involves students eating items like chocolate bars at
first before moving on to more disgusting food like whole raw onions.

**

READING WRITING, RESCUING

HeadLine: MY 3 Rs .. READING WRITING, RESCUING

Daily Record, 08/11/1999, p22
by SHAUN MILNE

A TEACHER helped save a Spanish fisherman's life after translating
desperate pleas for help by his crewmates.
Clyde Coastguard called in Spanish teacher Christine Gibbens after the
man was swept overboard 500 miles off the coast.
They could hear his colleagues but couldn't understand what they were
saying.
But with Christine's help they assessed the situation and passed on
vital medical advice while co-ordinating with other coastguards.
Between them they managed to rescue Marcus Olveira, 25, who suffered
two broken legs and hypothermia.
Last night, the Spaniard was heading for a hospital in Reykjavik,
Iceland.
Modest Christine, from Greenock - who teaches Spanish at St Columba's
High School - said: "It's just something you do to help - anyone would
help if they could.
"The Coastguard had a number of questions they wanted to ask the
captain.
"They needed to know the state of the patient, if he was conscious or
had lost any blood, if he was suffering hypothermia or had been given
any medicine.
"They also wanted to know about the state of the sea and visibility.
They are really nice, super people. Nothing flaps them. You go down
there to a big emergency and you wouldn't know, everything is so calm
and professional."
Last night Clyde Coastguard watch manager Stuart Atkinson praised
Christine for her help.
He said: "Without her we would have had a real problem because none of
us speak any Spanish.
"She comes down here any time we ask. It's the second time in about a
year I've dealt with her and I can safely say she is a huge help."

**

DON'T BE LATE DOME

HeadLine: DON'T BE LATE DOME

Daily Record, 11/11/1999, p37
by SHAUN MILNE

THE Millennium Dome will not be finished in time to meet its deadlines,
organisers admitted last night.
The builders now face a race against time to have the massive site
ready for its January 1 opening.
Under the deadlines set down by Tony Blair, construction was due to be
completed by the end of this month.
All 14 of the main exhibits, and the surrounding satellite attractions,
were supposed to be finished in time to allow a month of tests before
the Dome, at Greenwich, London, opens to the public.
The whole area will also need to be completely dust-free before the
specialist computer equipment used to work the structures is installed.
But yesterday it emerged that five of the main exhibits are likely to
miss their deadlines.
Work on the Body, Mind, Play and Rest zones are all currently running
behind schedule.
And almost none of the interactive contents of the Shared Ground zone
are in place.
The project has been hit by wildcat strikes from electricians and a
series of last-minute design changes.
Now work on the 20-acre site will drag on towards Christmas in the hope
it can be completed in time for its opening.
A spokesman said: "It's going to be tight. It may be that some of the
more hands-on element of these experiences are not installed, though
they are planned to be finished by the end of November."
he embarrassing admission came on the same day that executives of the
New Millennium Experience Company also conceded tickets sales had
fallen flat.
Just 800,000 tickets have been pre-booked so far, way off the
anticipated 12million final total hoped for by those behind the
project.
Liam Kane, managing director of the New Millennium Experience Company,
initially refused to give a figure on ticket sales.
But he later confirmed the figure of 800,000 which emerged from a
Commons Culture Committee meeting last month.Trying to appear upbeat,
he added: "We are ahead of that number now."
A survey this week showed only one of 30 ticket outlets in three major
cities had sold any tickets to the Dome.
But Kane said: "I would like to thank the survey for giving us two of
the busiest days so far in terms of ticket sales.
"About a quarter of people tell us they will only buy their tickets the
day before coming and, in all, eight per cent plan not to book more
than four weeks before their visit.
"We are absolutely confident that we are on target to meet our 12
million figure."
The cameras were invited into the site yesterday to view the massive
Body Zone, sculptures of two bodies embracing.
But the media were not allowed inside the towering structure to see
displays because the work was not finished.

**

CORRS IN MOURNING AS MUM JEAN DIES

HeadLine: CORRS IN MOURNING AS MUM JEAN DIES

Daily Record, 26/11/1999, p12
by SHAUN MILNE

THE mother of Irish pop sensations The Corrs has died after suffering
an asthma attack.
Jean Corr, 57, who was awaiting a lung transplant, was on holiday with
friends in England when she took ill.
She was taken to hospital in Newcastle but her condition deteriorated
and her four famous children were at her bedside when she died.
Yesterday. Gerry and the children were too upset to talk about her
death.
They were expected to fly home to Dundalk, County Louth, with her body
last night.
Local priest Father John McCallion said people were shocked at the news.
He said: "It is not too often that a family as famous as this, one that
has hit the pop charts, lives just down the road from you.
"They are a very quiet, unassuming family and the people of Dundalk
will give the Corrs time to be by themselves."
Jean and husband Gerry had their own pop group, Two's Company, in the
1970s before helping their children on the road to fame and fortune.
With their support, the young Corrs - lead singer Andrea, drummer
Caroline, violinist Sharon and guitarist Jim - formed the group in
1990.
They released their first album, Forgiven, Not Forgotten, in 1995 and
made inroads in Ireland, Europe and Australia.
Their breakthrough in the UK came last year with the release of Talk on
Corners - the biggest-selling album of 1998.
It included a cover of the Fleetwood Mac song, Dreams, which was a
massive hit single.
They are about to launch a live CD for the Christmas market and have
been busy recording another studio album.

**

LINDA'S GRIEF AS SHE LOSES BABY

HeadLine: LINDA'S GRIEF AS SHE LOSES BABY

Daily Record, 27/11/1999, p32
by SHAUN MILNE

SUPERMODEL Linda Evangelista yesterday told of her devastation at
suffering a mis- carriage six months into her pregnancy.
Linda and her lover, French international goalkeeper Fabien Barthez,
had been looking forward to the birth of a baby boy early in the New
Year.
But yesterday, she revealed that she had lost the child three weeks ago.
The couple are still trying to come to terms with the tragedy.
Looking drawn and depressed, the Canadian model said: "It was the first
time I had been pregnant and I'm very sad. It hurts to think about it."
The couple are mystified by the reasons for their loss but one
possibility is that the pregnancy may have been affected by an
operation five years ago in California.
She underwent surgery to remove an ovarian cyst but there were serious
complications and one of her ovaries was badly scarred.
Her bowel was also perforated so that she couldn't eat or drink for
three days and had to be fed by intravenous drip. Experts at the
£500-a-night hospital had warned her that the surgery, which left an
eight-inch scar, might affect her chances of having a child.
Linda said: "Everything was going fine, I hadn't told anybody about it
until the fourth month. I thought after that there would be no
problems. I always wanted six boys. Now I know that I want at least
one. It is very upsetting."
Linda is one of the world's most expensive models and once famously
remarked that she would not get out of bed to work for less than
£10,000. She met shaven-headed Fabien, who helped France to World Cup
glory last year, at a nightclub in St Tropez 15 months ago.
The couple moved into a luxury rented villa on the hills above Monaco,
where he plays football, as they made plans to start a family.
Linda decided to put her career on hold while she prepared for
motherhood and was already buying designer baby clothes.
In an interview with a French magazine, she said: "I wanted to be near
Fabien - I want our love to last. He is my priority and I prefer to
stay with him instead of travelling round the globe.
"I have been doing that for 15 months and my passports are full of
visas. I was in a different country each day switching languages. I
felt like a chicken that was still running about after its head had
been chopped off. My dream was always to wake up in the same bed each
morning."
She recently secured a three-year £5million advertising contract for
Clairol and was paid £1million for a 40-second Pizza Hut advert.
Linda is already divorced from model agent Gerald Marie and broke off
an engagement to Twin Peaks star Kyle Maclachlan over worries about her
career.
Now though she only has eyes for Fabien and the couple plan to marry.
The footballer also spoke of the agony of losing their baby. He said:
"We are asking ourselves, why does it happen to us?"

**

Rangers star McCann cheats death in car smash

HeadLine: Rangers star McCann cheats death in car smash

Daily Record, 07/12/1999, p13
by SHAUN MILNE

RANGERS star Neil McCann and his wife had a miracle escape when their car skidded on black ice and smashed head on into a brick wall.
The couple were going home after a family birthday party on Saturday night when their silver BMW 323i spun out of control.
The £25,000 sports saloon crashed into the wall off the A8 at Langbank, Renfrewshire, but McCann, 25, and wife Karen escaped uninjured.
McCann, who is in Germany ahead of the Ibrox club's UEFA Cup tie against Borussia Dortmund today, was unavailable for comment.
It's understood airbags activated on impact and protected the £1.75million-rated player and his wife.
Their mangled car was taken to a garage in Port Glasgow to be inspected while McCann flew off to Germany with his team-mates.
A garage source said: "They are both very lucky indeed. Neil said he
thought they'd both had it.
"If they hadn't been in such a sturdy motor then I doubt if they would be here to tell the tale now."
McCann has become a fans favourite at Ibrox after his £1million
move from Hearts.
The player - nicknamed Terry after Dennis Waterman's character in the 80s TV show Minder - grew up in Port Glasgow, not far from the scene of the Saturday's accident.

**

Tup-of-love battle over Sammy the ram

HeadLine: Tup-of-love battle over Sammy the ram

Daily Record, 09/01/1998, p20
by SHAUN MILNE

Two farmers are fighting a tug-of-love battle over a stray sheep.
The ram was rescued by SSPCA officers on Saturday after it was found
wandering.
Two farmers have now claimed the creature, christened Sammy by staff
looking after him at a sanctuary.
Now it's up to the SSPCA to decide who really owns him. And the
claimants will have to answer a quiz on intimate details of the sheep's
appearance.
Animal welfare worker Caroline Dickson said: "We are asking both
farmers for full descriptions of Sammy.
"If either can tell us what specific markings he has on his body, we'll
have to assume he is theirs.
"It's hard to believe two farmers from that area have lost sheep,
though.
"It means another sheep could still be wandering around."
Caroline quipped: "Maybe they were trying to elope together!"
Staff at the centre are trying to keep Sammy's details secret in case
someone else tries to pull the wool over their eyes and lay claim to
him.
Caroline added: "Sammy is definitely not used to humans.
"He keeps trying to run away from us and jump the fence in his pen.
"He's in good health. All we can do is feed and water him until we find
his real owner."
It's thought that Sammy roamed round Dunfermline, Fife, for at least
three days.
The SSPCA inspector finally tracked him down and caught him in Townhead
Street.
He was taken to the SSPCA Animal Welfare Centre at Balerno, Edinburgh.
They hope he'll be back with his rightful owner within a week.

**

Lifeboat kilties rescue canoeist

HeadLine: Lifeboat kilties rescue canoeist

Daily Record, 12/01/1998, p11
by SHAUN MILNE

A stricken canoeist was amazed when he was plucked from chilly waters
after seven hours by a lifeboat crew wearing KILTS and bow ties.
The Oban team had been heading for their annual dinner when they were
called out to help Peter Murray.
So the six-man crew pulled on their survival suits over kilts and suits
and took off to search around Balnagowan Island, in Loch Linnhe,
Argyll.
They found Peter, 31, but he was hallucinating after the perilously
cold water brought down his body temperature to a critical level.
So he was unsure at first whether the crew really were wearing kilts.
But one rescuer confirmed: "The lads had kilts on."
A Navy helicopter, the Oban lifeboat and Coastguard teams from Oban and
Fort William were involved.
Peter, a Gaelic lecturer, of High Street, Fort William, was found just
before 9pm on Saturday and flown to Lorne and Isles Hospital in Oban.
The lifeboat team turned up to cheers at their dinner at the Soroba
House Hotel, Oban.
It was the Oban lifeboat unit's 1001st rescue.

**

CELTIC STAR'S HEARTBREAK

HeadLine: CELTIC STAR'S HEARTBREAK

Daily Record, 17/01/1998, p15
by SHAUN MILNE

Grief-stricken Celtic star Craig Burley was comforting pregnant wife
Sheryl last night after the death of her mum.
The Scotland player dashed from training to be at her side after
getting an urgent phone call.
His mother-in-law, Una Allan, 50, had been taken to hospital for
treatment but died on Thursday.
Una, of Dalhannah Drive, New Cumnock, Ayrshire, was told she had breast
cancer a year ago.
But it did not stop her looking forward to the birth of Craig and
Sheryl's second child this summer. The couple have a son, Luke, two.
Craig's grandmother, Sadie Burley, of Cumnock, Ayrshire, said: "Craig
and Sheryl are devastated. They were close to her mum."
Craig, nephew of Ipswich boss George Burley, wed Sheryl two years ago
when he was playing for Chelsea. He was transferred to Celtic for
£2.2million last summer.
Una worked as a cleaner at New Cumnock Town Hall. She had two other
children with husband Alex, 52 - son Kriss, 19, and daughter Yvonne,
30.
It is not known if Craig will play against Dundee United at Tannadice
today.
A Celtic spokesman said: "It is a family matter."

**

JAILBREAK CON CLIMBS BACK INTO HIS CELL

HeadLine: JAILBREAK CON CLIMBS BACK INTO HIS CELL

Daily Record, 20/01/1998, p10
by SHAUN MILNE

A con cut his way out of a jail cell then got cold feet and broke back
IN.
He hacked through the bars of his window then used a rope of sheets to
climb 30 feet down to the courtyard at Glenochil prison.
Then he wandered around for almost an hour before losing his nerve and
clambering back up the rope to his cell.
Insiders at the high- security jail in Clackmannanshire claim bosses
only found out about the bizarre breakout bid when the con himself told
them.
An investigation was under way last night.
The prisoner is thought to be doing time for armed robbery.
A jail source said: "He used sheets tied together as a rope to climb
down the wall of Delta Block.
"He was in the yard for about an hour and for some reason chickened out
and climbed back in.
"He was roaming about no problem but he never made it to the perimeter.
"The first staff knew about it was when he told them what he'd done.
"The guy has been transferred to a secure unit and is being segregated."
The Scottish Prison Service confirmed a man had been reported to police
in connection with an escape attempt at Glenochil on Friday night.
A spokesman said: "An inspection showed the bars in the cell had been
tampered with.
"It is a very serious matter and an investigation is being carried out
to discover exactly how it happened."
He wouldn't say how the inmate cut the bars.
Police confirmed they had been informed about the incident.

**

Church applause for gun stunt Rev

HeadLine: Church applause for gun stunt Rev

Daily Record, 02/02/1998, p11
by Shaun Milne

A Minister who staged his mock execution with a gunman was given a
standing ovation yesterday by his congregation.
The Rev Earlsley White was close to tears as 200 parishioners stood and
applauded him as he began the morning service.
White, 69, was convicted last week of staging the bizarre mock
execution during a service last year - just weeks before the
anniversary of the Dunblane massacre.
But his congregation rallied around him at Park Parish Church in
Uddingston, Lanarkshire, yesterday.
As worshippers arrived, many warmly embraced the minister, who retires
in three weeks, and offered messages of support.
And when he began his service the congregation began clapping.
He stood head bowed as the noise thundered around the church. Then he
said: "On behalf of my wife and I, thank you. It is impossible for us
to put into words how we feel."
In the congregation was former SAS man Matthew Smith, who was found
guilty of helping the minister stage the gun scare last February.
During the service White talked of how people should learn from
mistakes and be shown forgiveness.
Many of the congregation were moved to tears themselves as the
minister's voice strained with emotion.
He spoke of preaching in other parts of the world as well as his many
years spent in Uddingston.
He added: "Nothing from that touches the intensity, the depth and the
extent of love you have shown us."
White offered words of comfort to Matthew Smith and his wife Carol.
After the service he said: "My wife and I were really touched. It
almost brought us to tears."
Both White and Smith will be sentenced at Hamilton Sheriff Court on
February 20.
White is expected to tender his resignation at a meeting of the church
presbytery on Tuesday because he is retiring.

**

HeadLine: SCOTLAND LIFTS THE WORLD CUP (well, at least for the day)

HeadLine: SCOTLAND LIFTS THE WORLD CUP (well, at least for the day)

Daily Record, 10/02/1998, p3
by Shaun Milne

Scotland lifted the World Cup yesterday as football's Holy Grail came
to Glasgow.
The atmosphere was electric as fans - and even seasoned pro footballers
- got caught up in the magic.
More than 200 watched Lisbon Lion Jimmy Johnstone lay his hands on the
trophy.
Clasping it in both hands, his eyes said it all.
In Jinky's mind, he had just scored Scotland's winner in the World Cup
final.
He said: "It's beautiful. I only wish I'd been able to hold it as a
player.
"Maybe some time in the future, we might get to keep it."
Strict security surrounded the glittering prize, which is on a
promotional tour of Britain.
Arriving in Scotland at the weekend, the cup was kept locked away until
yesterday when police took it to Glasgow's Bellahouston Academy.
People from all walks of life realised their dream of holding the
trophy aloft.
Former Scotland heroes Murdo MacLeod and Joe Jordan watched in awe.
Murdo said: "What a great occasion for all the fans here. You see
people holding the cup and all of a sudden they become kids again.
"It gives people who will never compete on that kind of stage the
chance to touch it."
Pupil William Cowie, 16, of Kinning Park, said: "It was great - maybe
I'll get to hold it again if Scotland ever win it."
Pal Tracey Anderson, 17, of Castlemilk, added: "This has been the most
exciting thing for me ever. All my friends are jealous."
Later, at Ruchill Sports Centre, two under-14 teams battled it out for
the chance to lift the trophy.
St David's High School from Dalkeith, Midlothian, emerged 10-3 victors
over Bannockburn High School.
After a trip to Glasgow's Royal Concert Hall, the cup was taken to the
Asda superstore in Govan, where 200 fans queued in the rain for four
hours.
Pensioner Susan Stewart, 69, said: "It was a real thrill to hold it. My
three grandsons won't believe it when I tell them."
Still under tight security, the cup was taken to England last night.
It will also go to Nigeria, Korea and Holland before ending up in
France for the tournament.
The World Cup is regarded as priceless and a huge security screen goes
into operation wherever it goes.
The man in charge is 44-year-old New Yorker Mike McGlynn, who has been
on tour with the World Cup and Coca Cola since January.
He has just returned from Saudi Arabia, where in 48 hours more than
13,000 queued up for their chance of clutching the trophy.
From there he went to Zurich to get his new orders at FIFA HQ before
making the trek to Scotland to spark yesterday's football frenzy.
Mike said: "It's all about the magic and the mystique of the cup being
brought to the normal football fans across the world.
"It's only right that people who normally only see it on TV are given
the chance - a once in a lifetime chance - to touch it.
"The world cup is the life and soul of football and people hold it in
awe.
"As soon as they come near it they immediately become respectful
towards the trophy. It's got that much of a hold, so much power, nobody
dares try to abuse it."

**

It's baby No11 for pair on benefits fortune

HeadLine: It's baby No11 for pair on benefits fortune

Daily Record, 21/02/1998, p9
by Shaun Milne

A couple dubbed Scotland's biggest spongers have just had their
ELEVENTH baby.
Donna and Brian Deighan get more than £24,000 a year in state handouts
for their kids.
Their latest addition to the family, Rebecca, was born at Simpson's
Memorial Maternity Pavilion, in Edinburgh.
She initially suffered some complications with jaundice and feeding
problems but mum and baby were back at the family's specially-
converted flat yesterday.
Rebecca has been introduced to her brothers and sisters Brian jnr, 15,
Kelly, 14, Michelle and James, 12, Lyndsey, eight, Danny, seven, John,
six, Nicole, five, Hayley, two, and 14- month-old Tony.
The Deighans live rent free in Burdiehouse, Edinburgh, and pick up
almost £500 a week in child allowance and dole benefits.
The payouts are almost doubled with housing and council tax benefits.
Neither parent has worked for more than 16 years. They refuse to find
jobs unless they pay them at least as much as the couple get without
one.
Brian, 37, claims he's been condemned to a "life on the dole" because
he would need to earn more than £34,000 to raise his family.
The Deighans have already demanded Edinburgh City Council find them a
bigger home.
A council spokesman admitted yesterday they might have to.
Last month, Donna, 32, said she and Brian would like to have a 12th
child.

**

LOST KEY SPARKS JAIL ALERT

HeadLine: LOST KEY SPARKS JAIL ALERT

Daily Record, 21/02/1998, p12
by Shaun Milne

A dozy prison officer sparked a major security alert when he forgot to
hand in a master key after his shift.
Saughton Prison in Edinburgh faced a complete lockdown as frantic
officials searched for the key.
It was eventually tracked down to a sports locker room.
The officer had left it in his trousers pocket while he went off to
play rugby.
He was in a prison team playing a police side at Lothian and Borders
Police HQ at Fettes in the capital.
The first he knew of the alert was when officials raced to Fettes
sports fields and had him substituted.
He was frogmarched to the changing rooms and ordered to open his locker.
After the key was found raging prison bosses quizzed him about his
movements between the top- security jail and the fields.
They had to be sure there was no risk the key had been copied.
That would have meant every lock in the jail being changed -at a cost
of tens of thousands of pounds.
A prison source said: "The place went bonkers trying to find out where
it had gone.
"That key can get you into anywhere at Saughton. If it fell into the
wrong hands, God knows what could have happened."
A Scottish Prison Service spokeswoman said: "We can confirm a key left
the establishment.
"Management at Edinburgh Prison are investigating the matter."
It's not the first time the jail has been hit by similar security
alerts.
Last year murderer John George was found with jail keys.
Two years before, an officer caused mayhem when he lost his prison keys.

**

HONOR ENDS UP ON 'ER BACKSIDE

HeadLine: HONOR ENDS UP ON 'ER BACKSIDE

Daily Record, 23/02/1998, p3
by Shaun Milne

Supermodel toff Honor Fraser should know all about sliding down the
banister of grand staircases ...
But the Scots stunner seemed to have forgotten the technique at the
start of London Fashion Week and ended up in a very unladylike crumple.
High-spirited Honor was left blushing on the floor of the plush Cafe de
Paris last night.
It ruined the launch of wacky designer Vivienne Westwood's latest
collection.
And it brought back memories of Naomi Campbell's tumble in a pair of
10- inch Westwood platform shoes on a Paris catwalk five years ago.
There were gasps as 23-year-old Honor took a fall.
The unchoreographed spectacle came as Westwood described her luxurious
Red Label collection as being for the woman who "wants to be noticed"
and "enjoy life".
She added that the Red Label wearer "is not a girl, she is a young lady.
"She knows the power of her coquetry. She dresses to pull her man."
But they were ominous words on the night that Girl Power landed on its
backside.
Honor has been on a rapid rise in the fashion world, attracting huge
cash contracts from the most exclusive design houses.
The blue-blood is granddaughter of war hero Lord Lovat who led the
commandos during the Normandy landings.
She grew up in Beaufort Castle, Inverness-shire, and now struts her
stuff for the likes of Nina Ricci, Guy Laroche and Givenchy on the
catwalks of the world.
Her blunder yesterday was witnessed by Simply Red's Mick Hucknall,
EastEnders star Patsy Palmer and Saffron from Britpop band Republica in
the celebrity audience.
It's the second boob Fraser has made at the show in a few days.
On Friday, she had her breasts painted in Union Jack colours red, white
and blue, to get the fashion showcase off to a flying start.

**

GUN SLUR IS RULED OFF-SIDE

HeadLine: GUN SLUR IS RULED OFF-SIDE

Daily Record, 13/03/1998, p32
by Shaun Milne

A football club have been red-carded for claiming an opposing player
SHOT their goalie.
Newtongrange Star also said a player from local rivals Bonnyrigg Rose
had chewed off the keeper's ear, gouged his eyes out and cut off his
head with a machete.
East Region Junior FA beaks slammed the tongue-in-cheek remarks in a
match programme as a "disgrace".
They fined the club £200 and demanded they write to Bonnyrigg to
apologise.
Newtongrange beat Bonnyrigg 2-1 in a John Walker East League game last
month.
But an article in Newtongrange's official match programme the next week
claimed Bonnyrigg had acted like rugby players.
And it said goalie Alan Stewart was shot in the stomach by a
Newtongrange player using a revolver.
East Region secretary Allen Bryce said: "This was way over the top and
an absolute disgrace.
"The programme remarks infringed our rules. This just isn't funny.
We've already warned all clubs about their programme content.
"Newtongrange and Bonnyrigg are close together and these remarks could
cause a lot of friction.
"Junior football is given a bad enough reputation as it is without
these remarks. They were terrible."
Allen said Newtongrange had been fined and told to say sorry to their
rivals.
But he admitted they could appeal to the Scottish Junior Football
Association against the decision.
Newtongrange secretary Kenny Russell thought the fine was harsh but
said his club would accept the ruling.
He added: "I think we've been hard done by.
"All we did was compare Bonnyrigg players with rugby ones. No malice
was intended but we'll take it on the chin."
Bonnyrigg keeper Alex Stewart and secretary Billy Scotland were
unavailable for comment yesterday.

**

THE £130,000 GARAGE

HeadLine: THE £130,000 GARAGE

Daily Record, 13/03/1998, p21
by Shaun Milne

A converted garage near the site of Scotland's new Parliament is being
sold for a whopping £130,000.
A few months ago, it was a dingy lock-up used for storing cars.
But a businessman snapped it up, got the builders in and turned it into
a two-bedroom flat.
Then Donald Dewar announced that the Parliament would be just five
minutes' walk away - and James Jones knew he was in the money.
He said: "It was a complete fluke. When I bought it, no one knew where
the Parliament was going. Donald Dewar didn't phone me up to tell me.
"But I thought it was good news when I heard it was to be Holyrood."
James, 54, is confident of getting at least £130,000 for the flat - and
the experts agree.
Estate agents Doyle and Co say they have already had a number of people
asking about it.
Edinburgh is already in the middle of a property boom, with houses and
flats going for tens of thousands above the asking price.
James, who runs a car dealership in the city centre, won't say how much
he paid for the lock- up last autumn.
He decided to buy it after seeing the "for sale" sign on his way to
work.
He said: "I don't know why. I just saw it, decided to buy it and got
the builders in.
"It was just a business idea, simple as that. I've been told if I hold
on for a couple of years then I'll be able to get a lot more money for
it.
"But I bought it to be converted and sold and that's what I intend to
do - sell it and move on to the next thing."
The ground-floor pad in Cranston Street, complete with built-in car
space, looks across to Calton Hill - the failed runner in the race to
find a home for the Parliament.
It has a lounge-dining room, fitted kitchen, two double bedrooms,
bathroom and separate shower cubicle.
Features include a state-of-the-art alarm system and electronically
operated garage door.
Estate agent David Alexander said the Scottish Parliament was pushing
up prices all over Edinburgh - and the Old Town in particular.
He said: "Investors want to buy property here that they can go on to
let at a premium.
"Others just see Edinburgh as THE place to be right now.
"In fact, there are more people wanting to buy than there are houses
available and that's also pushing the prices up.
"A house going for £118,000 in Marchmont sold last week for £180,000.
But there were 16 people bidding for that, which means there's still 15
out there.
"Already we're seeing prices jumping 20 and 30 per cent above the
asking price.
"We could even see select prices double in the long-term future."
George Clark, of the Edinburgh Solicitors' Property Centre, agreed
prices would go through the roof.
He said: "Quality property near the Parliament will increase in value
at a far greater rate than those a few miles away.
"There is already a short supply of quality property in the city
centre."
But Mr Clark had a warning for the Scots Secretary over plans to base
the Parliament in the old Strathclyde council HQ until the new building
is ready.
He said: "Something Donald Dewar needs to look at is whether MSPs and
civil servants will want to buy in Glasgow for the first two years.
"If they do that, then they will face a costly move to Edinburgh and
someone will need to pick up the tab for it."
The Scottish Office admitted MSPs, civil servants and others would have
to consider buying in Edinburgh.
A spokesman said: "It would be a purely personal matter. But I'm sure
there will be some who will want to move closer to Holyrood."

**

LOTTO JOHN'S A GEM

HeadLine: LOTTO JOHN'S A GEM

Daily Record, 30/03/1998, p7
by Shaun Milne

Lotto millionaire John McGuinness has splashed out £150,000 on an
engagement ring for his girlfriend.
The diamond sparkler was bought from a local jeweller as jackpot winner
John prepares to wed for a second time.
Fiancee Sandra Baird said: "The ring is out of this world.
"I had to look twice when I opened the box."
The ring has already been photographed in meticulous detail for
insurance purposes.
A family friend said: "I'll bet he got little change out of £150,000
for that stone.
"It's enormous. We are all very happy for them."
John, 34, who landed £10million on the lotto in January, 1996, split
from first wife Hazel shortly after his big win.
The former pounds 150-a-week hospital auxiliary expects his divorce to
come through within weeks.
He'll then be free to wed long-term girlfriend Sandra, who said "yes"
to his proposal of marriage.
At his plush £750,000 home in Bothwell, Lanarkshire, John said: "I'm
absolutely delighted.
"Sandra and I have been together for several years now and we are so
happy together."
Bride-to-be Sandra, 29, said she was over the moon - even if John's
wasn't the most romantic of proposals.
She said: "There was no getting down on one knee. In fact, I don't
think he formally proposed to me.
"Maybe he was just taking things for granted.
"He was more interested in getting out the door to go to a charity
function for a wee boy who's not very well. We decided we are going to
celebrate at a later date."
The couple have a daughter, Rachael, who was born last August.
John has another child, Lauren, nine, from his first marriage.
However, news of his engagement was tainted by reports of a growing
rift between him and sister Anne Smith.
Anne, 39, is said to be furious her brother has blown more than
£3million on exotic holidays, football souvenirs and a fleet of
expensive cars.
He's also bought £1.3million worth of shares in Celtic football club.
But John is reported to be angry that Anne is not more grateful to him
for splashing out thousands on her.
As well as forking out for a new home, he also bought her the pub in
Shotts, Lanarkshire, where she used to work.
He is said to have driven right past her £100,000 home yesterday.
He was behind the wheel of his purple R-reg Ferrari with dad Bobby, 67,
in the passenger seat.
Anne is looking after their mother Peggy, 63, who is recovering from a
stroke, and Bobby is staying with John while she recovers.

**

£8000 COPTER MERCY FLIGHT FOR CUT THUMB

HeadLine: £8000 COPTER MERCY FLIGHT FOR CUT THUMB

Daily Record, 06/04/1998, p15
by SHAUN MILNE

A French fisherman was airlifted by a rescue helicopter after he cut
his THUMB.
The helicopter was scrambled from Stornoway Coastguard to lift him to
Western Isles Hospital.
They had received an emergency call from the skipper of the Cathard.
And they had to ask for an interpreter to meet them when they landed on
Lewis because the injured man couldn't speak English.
The three-hour rescue operation cost around pounds 8000.
But the fisherman was discharged from hospital just a short time after
treatment.
The Cathard was hundreds of miles off St Kilda in the Atlantic Ocean
when the operation was mounted.
A Coastguard spokesman said last night: "We could not have taken the
risk of not responding. For all we knew, the man's tendons could have
been severed or infection could have already set in.
"It would probably have taken them about 24 hours to sail to land to
get him treated."
The S61N helicopter used in the rescue had state-of-the-art
communications equipment.
It also had an extra fuel tank so it could stay in the air longer to
search.
Three years ago, Labour demanded an inquiry into claims that foreign
fisherman were abusing the rescue services.
It came after several crews, mostly Spanish, caused expensive rescue
bids after drunken brawls aboard ships.
They also came under fire for radioing distress calls for minor
injuries which did not need urgent treatment.
And in January this year, a search costing £240,000 turned out to be a
hoax by a drunken sailor.
Scores of rescuers risked their lives when the man rang the Coastguard
from home.
He claimed he was stranded on a life-raft in the Irish Sea.

**

MUM-TO-BE'S CLOSE CALL IN A PHONE BOX

HeadLine: MUM-TO-BE'S CLOSE CALL IN A PHONE BOX

Daily Record, 13/04/1998, p18
by SHAUN MILNE

A young mum sparked a red alert last night after going into labour in a
public phone box.
The frantic woman dialled 999 and told the operator: "Help, I'm giving
birth!"
Police raced to the scene and an ambulance crew were also scrambled.
The medics arrived at the call box outside a Post Office in Garscadden
Road, Glasgow.
They found the panicking woman being coaxed to take deep breaths by the
operator.
The drama happened just before 10pm.
Two midwives also rushed to the scene after receiving a radio call from
the ambulance crew.
The woman, fighting back floods of tears, was then bundled into the
back of the ambulance.
With the birth imminent, she was whisked away to the Queen Mother's
Hospital in Glasgow.
On arrival at the hospital, she was immediately taken to the labour
suite.
Within a matter of minutes, the baby arrived.
Last night, an ambulance source said: "Everything went fine. Both
mother and baby were doing well."
One police officer said: "We got a call saying the woman was having a
baby and just tried to get there as fast as we could.
"But the ambulance crew beat us to her.
"We initially thought she had already given birth.
"However, it would appear they managed to get the mum to the hospital
in time.
"And as far as we've been told, both are safe and well at the Queen
Mother's Hospital.
"But it was certainly a close call."
Hospital staff said the woman's identity was being kept secret until
relatives had been told the happy news.

**

MAGGIE'S AXEMAN DEAD

HeadLine: MAGGIE'S AXEMAN DEAD

Daily Record, 14/04/1998, p2
by SHAUN MILNE

The man who butchered Britain's coal industry has died.
Sir Ian MacGregor, dubbed Mac the Knife for ripping the industrial
heart out of Scotland, collapsed yesterday morning.
He was rushed to Taunton and Somerset Hospital after suffering a heart
attack while on holiday in the area.
Last night, STUC chief Bill Speirs said: "I doubt if many tears will be
shed for him in Scotland."
Not just the coal fields have reason to hold bitter memories of him -
steel workers too suffered.
MacGregor, 85, was a favourite of Margaret Thatcher during her reign as
Prime Minister.
She paid a New York bank £1.8million in the early 80s to bring him in
to ruthlessly prune the British Steel Corporation.
Thousands of Scots jobs were lost as a result and UK-wide, MacGregor
cut almost 100,000 steel jobs.
The cost-cutting changes he forced through led ultimately to the
closure of works like Ravenscraig almost a decade later.
During the miners' strike, Ravenscraig was the scene of bitter
confrontations between NUM pickets trying to stop coal supplies going
into the steel plant.
And it was in that 1984/85 miners' strike that MacGregor gained true
notoriety with the unions.
They called him Maggie's axeman, but the Tories regarded him as a hero
as he headed the NCB fight against the miners.
MacGregor won - but the price was near-extinction for much of Britain's
coal industry and Scotland was left with just one pit 10 years after
the strike ended.
Scottish NUM leader in the dispute, Mick McGahey, said last night: "He
was viciously anti-trade union and anti-working class.
"That is why he was appointed chairman of the coal board by Maggie
Thatcher - to destroy trade unionism, not just in mining but in
Britain."
Yet despite all the praise at the end of the dispute, MacGregor soon
slipped into the background, and he retired as NCB chairman in 1986.
Thatcher knighted him, but they soon fell out over his book on the
strike.
Last night, Thatcher said: "He brought a breath of fresh air to British
industry and made a real difference."
But deputy general secretary of the STUC, Bill Speirs, gave a more
commonly held Scottish view of him.
He said: "He took money from Margaret Thatcher to destroy the miners,
their union, their communities and ultimately the country's coal
industry."
He added that any death was a loss but "thousands have lost much,
including the lives of loved ones, because of the actions which Sir Ian
took with such enthusiasm".
MacGregor's Welsh-born wife Sibyl, whom he met during his years in the
USA, died in 1996. They had a son and daughter.
Latterly Sir Ian's main home had been in Bermuda.
* HATE him or love him, Ian MacGregor left his mark on British industry.
Miners' leader Arthur Scargill branded him the "American butcher of
British industry".
He replied: "I am not a butcher. I am a plastic surgeon. I try to
rebuild damaged features."
But even MacGregor himself admitted he had a darker side.
He once described himself as "a hoary old b*****d who likes to win".
MacGregor was born in Kinlochleven, Argyll, going to a top public
school before graduating from Glasgow University.
He began work at British Aluminium alongside his dad in 1935.
He moved to America in the 1940s, partly because he disliked the post-
war Labour government's nationalisation programme.
He won a reputation as a shrewd buyer of metals for defence work for
the government.
By the late 1960s, he had worked his way to the top of the Amax
Corporation, a minerals and coal giant, and had a reputation for being
tough but with a very shrewd business brain.
A workaholic, MacGregor, while based in Britain, often commuted to the
US for the day by Concorde.

**

BED HER? I'VE NEVER BEEN ALONE WITH HER

HeadLine: BED HER? I'VE NEVER BEEN ALONE WITH HER

Daily Record, 20/04/1998, p13
by Shaun Milne

Raging MP George Galloway has fiercely denied bedding a young student
behind his girlfriend's back.
He scoffed: "Bed her, I've never even been alone with her!"
And he vowed to sue the people responsible for launching what he said
was a hate campaign against him.
Cuban Judy Longcham-Lopez, 21, claimed Galloway had steamy romps with
her.
She said he promised her a life of luxury away from the poverty endured
under dictator Fidel Castro.
And in a Sunday paper she alleged Galloway set up a love-nest with
phone, fax and bedtime reading.
But speaking exclusively to the Record, Glasgow Kelvin MP Galloway
sneered: "This whole story is just a parcel of lies.
"It's the crescendo of a week full of hatred and abuse levelled against
me."
Galloway is separated from wife Elaine and lives with Palestinian
girlfriend Amineh Abu-Zayyad.
She was with him at their London flat yesterday.
George said: "She's standing right next to me. She's as solid as a
rock. She knows the reason why these attacks are being made.
"This is all because I had the temerity to show the British people what
affect sanctions are having on the Iraqi people.
"It constitutes the paid revenge of a woman known to me but who has
never been in any kind of personal relationship with me."
Galloway sparked a row last week by bringing Iraqi Mariam Hamza to
Glasgow for treatment for leukemia.
He was accused of using the four-year-old as a political pawn to have
sanctions against her country lifted.
He went on: "It is no coincidence this tissue of lies has been
published at the end of a week in which the abuse against me for having
exposed to the British people, perhaps for the first time, the reality
of what the sanctions policy is doing in Iraq, has peaked.
"This story is a well-paid-for act of revenge by this individual with
whom I have never had any kind of personal relationship.
"I have NEVER been alone with this woman.
"I'll be suing for libel. I've already fixed an appointment with my
lawyers.
"And I'll sue anyone who repeats its import."
Galloway poured scorn on Judy's claim that she first met him in public
three years ago while she posed nude in a hotel bubble bath.
He completely denied ever meeting her alone, having sex with her or
having any relationship with her other than as a boss.
He said: "I was never in Cuba in 1995.
"The very idea that in Communist Cuba a woman would be allowed to lie
nude in a bubble bath in a public place in a hotel owned by the
government is laughable."
He said she worked for him and colleagues while they tried to set up a
restaurant in Cuba.
Her job involved finding accommodation they could use as a flat and
office while negotiating the deal which later fell through.
Galloway said Judy was a keyholder to the flat but was not allowed to
take anyone there.
But he said one of his business partners found out she had abused their
trust.
He said: "He came in one night to discover this woman in bed with a
Cuban man.
"Later, he discovered that an electronic diary and a small quantity of
cash was missing from his luggage. He reported this to us, phoned her
and dismissed her."
But Galloway warned he would fight his critics.
He said: "My activities are controversial enough to allow papers to
attack me in the fiercest possible way.
"But any newspaper which lies about me will be sued for libel. I will
always take legal action."

**

MILLIONAIRE EVICTS SON WHO FELL FOR STABLEGIRL

HeadLine: MILLIONAIRE EVICTS SON WHO FELL FOR STABLEGIRL

Daily Record, 07/05/1998, p3
by SHAUN MILNE

A millionaire landowner has launched a court bid to evict his son who
fell for a stable girl.
Michael Nurse wants his son, Michael Jnr, banned from the family farm
after a bitter feud.
The men have been involved in the row since Michael Jnr fell for local
stablegirl Lindy Crawford.
Police moved in yesterday and ordered Michael and Lindy to leave the
Ayrshire farm where they had been working to set up a livery business.
They packed their things from a trailer home in the farm grounds,
loaded up a hire van and sped off, clearly upset.
Four horses in their care also have to be moved and the couple say they
are now homeless and broke .
Michael Jnr said: "The police told me that I had half an hour to get
all my stuff together, along with four horses, and to be off the farm
otherwise they would take me to jail. What else can I do?"
His dad claims that his 28-year-old son has had a change of character,
assaulted him and threatened his mother since he met Lindy.
He lodged eviction papers against his son at Ayr Sheriff Court.
But he was emotional yesterday as Michael Jnr fled Broomhill Farm, near
Dundonald .
Michael Snr, said: "I am very, very upset. I love my son very much. I
always have and I would do almost anything I possibly could for him.
"I don't dislike the girl. I don't know her. In fact, I'd say I have
done nothing but go out of my way to be overly polite to her when we
have met.
"All I know is she was a groom or stable hand or something. But since
he met her he has changed.
"He is usually diverted now, and as a concerned father, I think that is
because of her.
"He has become aggressive, is usually distracted from work, in fact his
own personality has changed.
"My son has got to accept his responsibilities for work as well as
other aspects of his life.
"All I wanted to do was help and give him an opportunity to do
something with his life.
"Since he met Lindy Crawford, who I understand is an unemployed groom,
he has totally changed.
"His motivation seems to come from Lindy and I don't even know her, or
her family or anything about her."
The 62-year-old, who made his fortune in the nursing home business,
bought Broomhill Farm in 40 acres of countryside 15 months ago.
He hoped to move into the farmhouse with his wife Kathleen, 58, after
one of their three daughters, Ruth, helped renovate the property.
But Michael and Lindy also shared dreams. They wanted to run a livery
from the farm and converted a run- down barn into a splendid stable
block for their string of horses.
The son is defending the eviction action.
Michael Snr claims he was left with no choice after the family feud
spilled over into violence just a fortnight ago.
He said: "My son came to the back door two weeks ago saying he wanted
to speak to me so I invited him in and offered him a cigarette.
"He told me he wanted to buy some of the land and I told him he
couldn't because I had my own lenders to satisfy. He thinks I'm a
bottomless pit when it comes to money.
"Then he grabbed me by the throat and pushed me up against the cabinets.
"That was when his mother walked in. You can imagine the state she was
in at seeing that.
"She picked up the phone to dial the police and Michael told her if she
did he would kill her. He said that to his own mother. There's got to
be a limit to what a parent will take."
Michael Jnr's solicitor, Michael Johnston, said: "We are defending an
action of ejection which has been raised at Ayr Sheriff Court by Mr
Nurse Snr."
According to Michael Jnr, when his father bought the farm the son
invested his life savings of more than £20,000 in it, on the
understanding that he would have the farm buildings and the land to run
a livery business.
He said that in return he was to contribute to the farm.
He claims he was to live in the large farmhouse with his parents until
he built a house of his own on the farm.
But they moved in his sister Ruth instead.
Michael Jnr and Lindy said they drew up plans to convert a derelict
cowshed into a modern stable block with eight boxes, which now houses
four horses.
They said a poisoner targeted six horses in February.
Michael Jnr added: "Someone had thrown barley soaked in the same poison
Rentokil use all over the stables and into the boxes."
His parents said that the same thing happened to their own horses at
the same time.
Mum Kathleen said: "A bag with the poison was found near their water
trough."
No harm came to any of the animals.
Lindy, 23, said: "The father, Ruth and his mother have been continuing
with a hate campaign against Michael and myself.
"We have both been verbally abused and called things you don't want to
print in your paper.
"Our electricity has been switched off. Every day is a nightmare.
"His family continually try to provoke us by keeping our mail for days
then throwing it at us and calling us losers and scum."
Michael Jnr added: "At one time I had an £80,000 flat in Troon and
drove a Mercedes and was travelling all over the country to take part
in show-jumping events.
"But I gave all that up to invest in the farm because all I wanted was
stables of my own.
"My parents own a nursing home worth £2million yet they seem to
want to ruin us."

**

SAVE MY HANDBAG

HeadLine: SAVE MY HANDBAG

Daily Record, 08/05/1998, p17
by SHAUN MILNE AND BILL CAVEN

A woman refused to leave her car as it sank in icy water - because she
didn't want to leave her handbag behind.
Eileen Townsend, 53, plunged into the Forth and Clyde canal after her
car stuck in reverse.
Brave student Andrew Penman dived into the water and tried to drag
Eileen out.
But she refused to leave the car without her bag because it contained
her house keys and she was worried nobody would get in to feed her
dogs.
As she recovered at her home in Bo'ness, West Lothian, last night,
Eileen said: "My biggest fear was not for myself but for my dogs at
home, which is why I did not want to let go of my handbag.
"It might seem silly but they might have been left without anyone to
fend for them."
Married Eileen plunged into the canal at Central Auctions in Falkirk on
Wednesday.
Andrew, 20, whose father owns the auction centre, had been loading a
van with 23- year-old worker Kevin Quinn. They raced to the canal and
saw the car sinking.
As Kevin ran to raise the alarm, Andrew dived in and tried to pull
Eileen clear. But she refused to leave without her bag.
A passing AA patrolman pulled over and threw a rope into the water.
Andrew managed to attach the bag to the rope and it was hauled to the
canal bank.
He then eased Eileen out of the car, before pulling her to safety.
Eileen, who is suffering from delayed shock, said: "I owe my life to
Andrew. He was very brave.
"I hope once I have regained my fitness I will be able to meet him and
will obviously be doing something to reward him."
But Andrew, a second year economics and social history student at
Glasgow University, played down his bravery.
He said: "We couldn't just stand by and knew we had to do something. To
be honest, it was hard to believe it was happening.
"I just took my keys out of my pockets and jumped in."
A police spokesman confirmed Andrew, who lives at the family's home in
Gleneagles, Perthshire, would be recommended for a meritorious conduct
award.
Eileen's car will be lifted from the canal by a police recovery team on
Monday.

**

Farmer saves pet pig with kiss of life

HeadLine: Farmer saves pet pig with kiss of life

Daily Record, 12/06/1998, p15
by SHAUN MILNE

A farmer saved his pot-bellied pig - by giving it the kiss of life.
Gavin Shanks was showing a customer prize bulls at his farm when he
noticed pet Tam floating face down in his swimming pool.
He jumped in fully clothed and pulled the pig to safety before laying
the porker at the water's edge, looking for signs of life.
When Gavin - a Highland games champion in the 1970s and 80s - realised
his farm favourite was not breathing, he began giving heart massage and
then the kiss of life to get air into its lungs.
Gavin, of Bowenhurst Farm, near Carluke, Lanarkshire, said: "I thought
we'd lost him.
"But he gave a little cough just as I was giving up, so I kept going.
"He seems to be back to normal. He's running about the farmyard quite
the thing now."

**

Casino breaks the rules to let Willis be a loser

HeadLine: Casino breaks the rules to let Willis be a loser

Daily Record, 21/08/1998, p12
by IAIN FERGUSON and SHAUN MILNE

Scots casino staff broke the rules to let film star Bruce Willis lose
£30,000 on their tables.
The Die Hard star turned up at the Stakis Riverboat Casino in Glasgow
on Wednesday after a round of golf at Prestwick.
Bruce and four pals offered to join - but Gaming Board rules say you
have to be a member for 24 hours before you can gamble.
However, after Bruce said he would lodge a £70,000 bond, he and his
friends were allowed to play for six hours, as revealed exclusively in
the Record yesterday.
One onlooker said 43-year-old Willis was arrogant and seemed to be in a
bad mood, adding: "He refused to sign autographs.
"For all his wealth you wouldn't have thought it would have taken much
for him to sign a bit of paper."
Bruce knocked back glasses of his favourite cocktail - Russian Vodka,
cranberry and grapefruit juice over ice - while chewing on thick Romeo
y Julietta Havana cigars which cost £10 each.
He also sampled some of the lagers on offer and told staff: "This is
great beer you've got here."
He suffered a dismal run on the blackjack and stud poker tables - but
when they did win, his group turned noisy with whoops of "Yeah, baby!"
The Willis party were given VIP treatment by the club, who posted an
assistant Manageress at their side for most of their stay.
A second member of staff was detailed to move on any curious onlookers,
but one staff member later revealed: "Bruce was a very poor tipper
which was a disappointment."
At one point Bruce - whose new movie Armageddon premiered in Scotland
last week - was escorted to the casino's bank before returning to his
table with more chips.
Asked by one member how he had fared at the tables, he gave a wry smile.
When Bruce eventually shuffled out into the cold early morning with his
wallet £30,000 lighter, his friends desperately tried to prevent their
famous pal being photographed.
When questioned by the Record as to why Bruce and his group were
allowed to play the tables, a Stakis spokeswoman at first said: "That's
a good question."
She then called back and claimed the group were signed in by a member,
and when told the Record knew the star had turned up unaccompanied, she
insisted: "I checked with the Riverboat and they said he was with a
member."
But then she quickly changed her mind, saying: "I have spoken to
someone else and it now seems there is a new law that celebrities are
allowed to be signed in."
Inspector Tom Kavanagh of the Gaming Board said: "You have to be a
member or a bona fide guest of a member to be signed in.
"In considering if a guest is bona fide the licensing court should
consider how long the host and guest have known each other and the
circumstances in which they have come to know each other.
Asked if there was a dispensation for celebrities, he said: "That's a
new one on me. It does seem rather odd. I don't think so."

**

FLIERS' FEAR ON SMOKE ALERT PLANE

HeadLine: FLIERS' FEAR ON SMOKE ALERT PLANE

Daily Record, 05/09/1998, p7
by SHAUN MILNE

Passengers on a Glasgow-bound jet sat in terror yesterday as they
feared their plane was heading for a repeat of the Swissair crash.
At 35,000 feet above the Atlantic, smoke was spotted in the cockpit -
just as it was in the Swissair jet only 30 hours earlier.
For almost half an hour, the 225 people on board feared they were
heading for a repeat of the Flight 111 disaster.
Eventually, the pilot of the Royal Air Boeing 757 from Toronto pulled
off an emergency landing at an air force base in Newfoundland.
No one was injured in the landing and the plane's passengers were last
night waiting to continue their journey.
Technicians from Royal Air, a Canadian charter firm, were flown out to
repair the plane, which should have arrived in Scotland at 11am.
But passengers looked likely to refuse to get back on and it was
unclear when they would arrive.
One of them, Jim Tait, of Glasgow, said: "It was the scariest half hour
of our lives."
A Scottish woman passenger said: "I am going to find another way to get
home. I'm not getting back on that plane.
"Where's the nearest pub? I am going to get drunk."
Another woman, describing the agonising minutes before the emergency
landing, told a TV station: "I knew something was really wrong when I
saw the flight attendant in tears."
A third woman said: "When we saw an attendant literally throwing dishes
and food to stow it away, we knew there was something serious
happening."
Scots passenger Irene Cadona said: "It was the same as the plane the
night before, in nearly the same place."
Air force base spokesman Captain Dave Murratt said: "The passengers
have been fed and we're putting them into our barracks so they can get
some sleep. Obviously, they are all a bit shaken up.
"Coming just a day after the Swissair crash, it must have been very
worrying for everyone on board."
Despite the pilot saying smoke had poured into the cockpit, the chief
executive of Royal Air, Al Graham, last night claimed no smoke had been
seen.
He said: "There's no indication of a significant problem. We've looked
at all of the records on the engine and everything is absolutely
normal."
But the Canadian authorities confirmed that smoke DID billow into the
cockpit. Jean des Jardins, of the Canadian Transportation Safety Board,
told the Record that the smoke was so thick that the pilot and co-
pilot had to don oxygen masks.
The drama started when the pilot radioed air traffic control, 150 miles
out to sea. He turned back to land at the 5- Wing Canadian Air Force
base in Goose Bay, Newfoundland.
Fire engines waited on the tarmac but were not required as the pilot
executed a textbook emergency landing.
* A Navy Sea King helicopter ditched safely in the Wash off Norfolk
yesterday, in an area where an RAF Jaguar pilot was earlier picked up
after ejecting.

**

The proof: where there's brass there's muck

HeadLine: The proof: where there's brass there's muck

Daily Record, 07/09/1998, p19
by Shaun Milne

Top brass guests heading for the official opening of an island's day
centre didn't exactly get the VIP treatment.
First of all, the minibus sent to collect them off the ferry wasn't big
enough and they had to hitch a lift on a farmer's trailer.
The three-mile, bone-shaking journey on Eigg was bad enough, but worse
- much worse - was about to befall the smartly- dressed bigwigs.
Not to put too fine a point on it ... they got covered in cow dung.
As the farmer drove along, his tractor encountered fresh cowpats on the
road - and its big rear wheels threw the muck up in the air and into
the open trailer.
The passengers were left stinking and covered in dung.
Officials from the Clydesdale Bank, Highland Council and local housing
associations were on their way to a new £600,000 day centre in
Cleadale when they got caught in the unexpected "shower".
They had earlier had to dive for cover as they were battered by over-
hanging tree branches and bushes along the narrow single track roads.
Jimmy MacDonald, 49, chairman of Highland Council's social work
committee, said: "When the tractor backed the trailer down the pier to
the ferry I thought it had come for a load of equipment off the boat
not a load of people.
"When we approached the cow hazard, my years on the croft stood me in
good stead. I saw what was going to happen and kept my head down."
One onlooker said tourists were falling about laughing and trying to
take photo- graphs of the debacle.
He said: "I think they took it in reasonably good part. It was
certainly a novel situation to find them- selves in.
"When they were herded aboard the tractor and trailer at the pier they
just looked at each other in disbelief.
"The wheels of the tractor threw the muck backwards over the people in
the trailer behind.
"Tourists on the island were snapping away furiously with their
cameras. The officials looked more like tattie howkers or refugees."

**

Teens who look destined for success

HeadLine: Teens who look destined for success

Daily Record, 14/09/1998, p14
by SHAUN MILNE

Middle class teenagers are more likely to succeed in life - because
they tend to be better looking than their working class counterparts.
And ugly kids from less privileged backgrounds face obstacles because
they are regarded as inferior.
The revelations follow a study for the Medical Research Council,
conducted in Glasgow in an attempt to link health and well-being to
social standing.
Interviews were conducted with 1000 15-year-old boys and girls in
locations varying from plush Victorian mansions to damp high-rise
flats.
Nurses conducting the interviews were asked to rate their subject in
terms of looks. When the scores were totalled, middle class teens did
best.
Professor Sally MacIntyre, of the MRC's medical sociology unit, said
the findings were important because job interviewers could reach the
same conclusions as the nurses.
But she admitted the nurses were giving their own opinions and may have
been swayed by the surroundings.
She added that if someone was from an affluent family and enjoyed a
better diet, grooming and lifestyle, then they could more aesthetically
pleasing.
But critics have already cast doubts on the results by pointing to the
success of Trainspotting star Kelly Macdonald, a working class school
girl.
Her rise mirrors that of supermodel Honor Fraser, who is from an
aristocratic Scottish family.
Jean McGhee, managing director of a leading recruitment agency in
Edinburgh, believed it is attitude and not looks which govern success.
She said: "Nine times out of 10 it is not what they look like that
matters. Middle class kids can often communicate better than ordinary
kids."

**

Stricken McCann rushed to hospital

HeadLine: Stricken McCann rushed to hospital

Daily Record, 25/09/1998, p1
by SHAUN MILNE

Celtic chief executive Fergus McCann was rushed to hospital by
ambulance early today.
The 56-year-old Canadian was ferried to the Ross Hall private hospital
in Glasgow suffering from severe stomach pains.
Hospital staff admitted him shortly before 1am but refused to give any
details of his condition.
Mr McCann took ill at his mansion in an exclusive area of Glasgow's
Pollokshields.
It was unclear whether his lawyer wife of four years Elspeth, 35,
accompanied him to hospital. The couple have two young daughters.
Mr McCann gained control of Celtic almost four years ago in a
controversial multi-million pound take-over.
He has been under intense strain in recent weeks as frustrated fans
vent their fury about the club's poor results and shortage of new
signings.
Mr McCann plans to step down from his position at the end of next
season following a five-year reign in charge.
He was recently quoted as saying that because of his health there was
no way he could be persuaded to stay on at the helm.
He said: "I know my health is just not as good as it should be. Life is
too short and I will be gone at the end of the 1998-99 season.
"I can't see anything that would make me want to remain."
An ambulance spokesman confirmed a crew had taken a 56-year-old man
from Mr McCann's address to hospital.
No one was available for comment from Celtic.

**

ROBBIE CORE-TRANE

HeadLine: ROBBIE CORE-TRANE

Daily Record, 30/09/1998, p19
by Shaun Milne

With his plump figure, Elvis-style hair and snarling expression Scots
actor Robbie Coltrane makes an unlikely sex symbol.
But bosses at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery say their new
picture of the former Tutti Frutti star is proving a real Cracker.
In the painting, Robbie is kitted out in his costume from the hit show
- crushed oversized suit, maroon shirt and tie - together with
trademark quiff.
But why is he is holding a half-eaten apple with a maggot crawling out
of it?
Painted by highly-acclaimed artist John Byrne, the sultry pose by
Robbie has become one of the most popular works of art at the gallery
in Edinburgh, according to its directors.
And Byrne - who also wrote Tutti Frutti - says the image captures a key
element of the drama, which starred Robbie as musician Danny McGlone.
In the six-episode 1987 BBC series, McGlone's band The Majestics hit
chart success after their manager buys up copies of their single in
bulk.
The storyline reflected claims once levelled against the group The
Poets that their manager did the same thing.
Byrne tries to show the music business involving McGlone is rotten to
the core - hence the apple.
The apple also symbolises temptation harking back to Adam and Eve.
The recently-acquired painting is included in the gallery's
newly-opened twentieth century collection.
Bosses say classic portraits of historical figures such as Mary Queen
of Scots and Robert Burns will always be the most popular.
But they discovered that visitors also wanted more modern-day portraits.
So they have re-installed their twentieth century collection, featuring
portraits of modern- day Scots celebrities such as snooker star Stephen
Hendry.
But the striking pose of 48-year-old Robbie - who also starred in TV's
Cracker - is the most popular purchase.
Keeper of the gallery James Holloway said: "It is a magnificent
portrait which brilliantly captures the face of Robbie we all know and
love.
"Some might wonder why we have a picture of Robbie Coltrane when we are
more famous for portraits of the likes of Bonnie Prince Charlie.
"But Coltrane is a modern-day hero so why not honour him now? When we
saw the picture we fell in love with it instantly.
"Now lots of people are doing the same since we put it up a few weeks
ago.
"It is hugely popular and we hope Robbie will visit it to give it his
seal of approval."

**

I'M BUILDING BUCKIE HOUSE

HeadLine: I'M BUILDING BUCKIE HOUSE

Daily Record, 01/10/1998, p11
by Shaun Milne

A reformed alcoholic wants to build a 40ft glass lighthouse out of
thousands of Buckfast bottles.
Terry Kerr, 33, hopes the controversial sculpture will become a beacon
of hope for people from his home town of Airdrie, Lanarkshire.
But the plan has sparked controversy in the area once dubbed the UK's
"Buckfast Capital".
Terry wants to build the structure in full view of the busy M8 at the
Blackhill television transmitter.
Local MP Helen Liddell once led a campaign against the strong, cheap,
wine made by monks in Devon.
The move came after she discovered a massive 80 per cent of sales of
Buckfast in Scotland were in her area.
Terry, who has been "dry" for 11 years, said his design was a tribute.
He said: "Some people may say it glorifies alcohol but does that mean a
war memorial glorifies war?
"This has nothing to do with Buckfast itself, that would be an insult
to the area.
"It's going to be built in the shape of a lighthouse to warn people of
the danger of their lives landing on the rocks. It will shine light on
the Millennium. It's showing the world that this is a chance to look at
our problems and solve them."
The work will take hundreds of thousands of empty wine, spirit and
Buckfast bottles to complete.
Terry, from Sikeside, Airdrie, has enlisted the help of an architect.
The monument will have a concrete base and be reinforced by a steel
frame with the bottles suspended within.
The sculptor said: "It will be a monument to social deprivation. When
the sun rises and hits the glass and lights up, it will look
spectacular. People will see it from across central Scotland.
"But it will be at night time, with the moonlight hitting the
different- coloured glass, that it will look really special.
"Being a former drinker gives me the right to build this using wine
bottles. I've had friends who died from alcoholism. I've been there
myself and I want to create a memorial to all those people who died."
Terry has exhibited in the USA in the past. His previous work includes
a self-portrait made entirely from stones and slabs washed up on a Fife
beach.
He also plans to donate his latest sculpture, entitled The Birth of
Thatcherism, to the local council.
However, his idea for the giant glass lighthouse has caused some upset.
The distributors of Buckfast Tonic Wine, Chandlers of London, said:
"Such a project would be a total insult to the people of the area.
Buckfast represents less than half of one per cent of the alcohol
consumed in Central Scotland."
A spokeswoman for the Greater Glasgow and Clyde Valley Tourist Board
said: "This is just not on for enhancing tourism."
North Lanarkshire Council leader Jim McCabe said: "The idea does not
strike me as something which would best show the merits of North
Lanarkshire. But as with all applications such as this, it will be
judged on the contents of the artist's presentation."
Pensioner Henry Harkins of Townhead and Gartsherry Community Council in
Coatbridge said: "It is not a good idea at all. The area is called
Buckfast Valley as it is. Things like this just make it 10 times
worse."
Caretaker Bruce Mungin, 51, from Airdrie said: "I'd be annoyed if it
were built. It's something that Coatbridge and Airdrie don't need.
"I think if the guy wants to help people who have problems with alcohol
he should start up a group or something."

**

£50,000 FOR TOM'S STAR WARS NUMBER PLATE

HeadLine: £50,000 FOR TOM'S STAR WARS NUMBER PLATE

Daily Record, 03/10/1998, p23
by SHAUN MILNE

Star Wars fan Tom Deas is hoping for an astronomical sum from selling
his car number plate - R2 DT0.
The 52-year-old Scots businessman is asking an out-of-this world
£50,000 for the registration.
He hopes die-hard fans of the film, which featured feisty little robot
R2 D2, will be keen to snap it up.
But the Official UK Star Wars Fan Club said he could get up to £100,000
if he waited another 12 months.
A new wave of Star Wars mania is predicted once the first of three new
films from the story is released.
R2D2 will be back, with Scots actor Ewan McGregor playing Ben Kenobi.
Tom, a businessman of Callander, Perthshire, said he got the plate
simply by asking the DVLA if it was for sale.
He said: "They usually keep the best ones to sell themselves but this
one slipped through the net.
"It's a remarkable number. Everywhere people come up and ask me about
it.
"I come back to find notes left on it like To R2D2, love Chewbacca. It
turns a few heads."
Iain Lowson, editor of the UK Star Wars Fan Club magazine, said: "The
force is with him. He will have no problem selling it for £50,000 here
in Britain. He might get more abroad."

**

GIVE ME BACK THAT PELICAN

HeadLine: GIVE ME BACK THAT PELICAN

Daily Record, 03/10/1998, p27
by SHAUN MILNE

The mystery of the rare giant pelican on a Scots river has been solved.
Experts were baffled when the five-foot North African bird appeared on
the River Dee.
But yesterday a bird sanctuary rang up to claim the bird as one of
theirs.
Staff at an Isle of Man wildlife park gave a description of the flyaway
white pelican which fitted the bill.
Nicknamed Scotty, it had been feeding happily on the Dee's salmon
stocks near Aberdeen for a week.
The SSPCA was called in to catch Scotty for fear someone might try to
shoot him.
But the wily bird, which weighs more than 30lbs and has a wingspan of
10 feet, gave SSPCA officers the slip for a week before they could
snare him with a giant net.
He was taken to a bird reserve in Fife where, now used to fine fare, he
refused to eat anything but rainbow trout!
The bad news for anglers is that another four pelicans like Scotty are
missing from the same wildlife park.
They disappeared within the last month after they came out of
quarantine but before their wing tips could be clipped.
No-one knows what made Scotty, whose natural habitat is is
sub-tropical, head north on his 360-mile flight.
The SSPCA's Doreen Graham said the other pelicans may have headed north
too.
She said: "I think word must have got out about the quality of Scottish
fish! Scotty was having a great time on the River Dee which is full of
fish and he certainly wasn't happy about being caught.
"In fact when we got him back to the rescue centre we had to upgrade
his diet because he refused to eat any sardines."
He was due to be flown to a new life at London Zoo yesterday - but just
hours before he left came the phone call from Isle of Man's Ballaugh
park.
So instead of heading to the Smoke, he was crated back to his real home
courtesy of Manx Airlines.
Deputy manager at Middlebank Rescue Centre in Fife, Ian Bork, said:
"It's the first time we have had an escaped pelican. The bird is
obviously accustomed to humans and is not intimidated by them in any
way.
"We don't know why it chose to fly so far north. Maybe it was the Scots
salmon he was after. The only thing he would eat is rainbow trout. We
are amazed no-one tried to take a pot shot at him."
Peter James, manager of the Ballaugh Wildlife Park, said Scotty and his
four missing friends, each worth £1200, came from a bird dealer.
He added: "We've had a fair bit of windy weather around here lately
which I think has caused the problem. When a bit of air lifts them up,
they take off like a jumbo jet and they soar for hundreds of miles."
**

Anger at veto on Dunblane playpark

HeadLine: Anger at veto on Dunblane playpark

Daily Record, 10/10/1998, p13
by SHAUN MILNE

Officials yesterday vetoed an opening ceremony for a controversial
playground built in memory of the Dunblane victims.
But the decision immediately sparked anger.
Work on the park was halted for a while during the summer after locals
- including Defence Secretary George Robertson's wife - objected over
traffic fears.
Central Scotland Chief Constable William Wilson then intervened.
The park was completed last month but now Stirling Council say there
won't be an opening ceremony.
Instead, industry leaders who donated equipment will be given an
official tour.
A council spokesman said: "Some people from the Association of Play
Industries will be coming next week.
"But it's not going to be an opening. We are trying to play it a bit
low-key."
Members of Dunblane Community Council and others who fought for the
park will not be invited.
Community council vice-chairwoman Moira Stuart said: "I'm annoyed
because we fought so hard to get this and we haven't been notified of
the visit.
"The park's brilliant and the children are loving it. We ought to think
about marking it in some way."
More than 350 people signed a petition in favour of the playpark.
But a roundabout and a climbing frame have been withdrawn from the park
in a bid to reduce its "impact" after locals' objections.

**

JOHN'S WEDDING ON CUE

HeadLine: JOHN'S WEDDING ON CUE

Daily Record, 12/10/1998, p6
by Shaun Milne

Snooker star John Higgins is all set for the match of his life, with a
wedding to his childhood sweetheart, Denise Whitton.
The 21-year-old millionaire world number one is one of Scotland's most
eligible bachelors. Friends expect the couple to announce their
engagement officially within the next few weeks.
And last night John's 55-year-old dad, John, said: "Yes it's true, they
have decided to get engaged.
"They are going to have a big party but we don't know when or where
yet. They've still to decide.
"Everybody has got to make their own decisions in life and this is
theirs. We're happy for them."
Denise, 21, and John, went to the same school in their home town of
Wishaw, Lanarkshire, but never really knew each other until they met in
a club five years ago.
John's mum, Josephine, said: "They've been talking about marriage for a
while but tended to think they were too young.
"But now I'm delighted for them. I know they haven't got a ring yet.
But they are definitely getting engaged."

**

Rugby star paralysed in rammy with giant French ace

HeadLine: Rugby star paralysed in rammy with giant French ace

Daily Record, 12/10/1998, p6
by Shaun Milne

A Scots rugby star was left paralysed down one side after an alleged
attack by a French opponent yesterday.
Matt Proudfoot collapsed in a heap after an off-the-ball incident
during a match in Edinburgh
The 20-stone prop forward was stretchered off the pitch and was last
night being treated in a special unit for patients with serious head
injuries.
The drama happened during the televised European Cup clash between
Edinburgh Reivers and French team Toulouse at Hibs' Easter Road ground.
Neither the referee nor his touch judges spotted the incident which
left South African- born Proudfoot pole-axed.
But experts working on BBC Scotland's live transmission of the game
quickly pointed the finger at French inter-national flanker Sylvain
Dispagne.
They showed several replays of the moment 26-year-old Proudfoot went
down and decided that he had been punched from behind by Dispagne.
Reivers coach Ian Rankin said he would decide today if any Toulouse
player is to be reported to the European rugby authorities.
He said: "It is obviously a very worrying situation, but before taking
any action, we will watch the video which the BBC have given us and a
tape we have recorded ourselves."
Reivers physio Stuart Barton added: "It looks as if Matt has a very
serious neck injury. He has lost most of the feeling down one side."
Thousands of BBC Scotland viewers watched the drama live and summariser
Andy Nicol, a fellow Scotland international, insisted Dispagne was the
culprit after replaying the incident in slow- motion four times.
Proudfoot, who had earlier scored a try for the Edinburgh side, was
carried off on a specially- adapted stretcher.
He was taken by ambulance under police escort to Edinburgh Royal
Infirmary before being transferred to a specialist neurosurgical unit
at the city's Western General Hospital.
He was said to be suffering from "a serious neck injury".
The incident overshadowed a heroic display by the Reivers, who stunned
the former European Cup holders with four first half tries before
finally losing 29- 25.
Proudfoot made his Scotland debut against Fiji during this year's
summer tour of the southern hemisphere.
He qualifies to wear the dark blue jersey through his paternal grandad,
Robert, a Clyde shipbuilder who emigrated to South Africa decades
before Matthew was born.
His first cap came just three months after moving from Northern
Transvaal to Melrose and officially declaring himself a rugby Scot.
He dedicated the honour to his hero, Kitch Christie, the former South
African World Cup- winning coach who had died just three weeks earlier
from cancer.
Proudfoot said: "I'm sad Kitch is not around to hear about this honour.
"His death was devastating for me because he was one of the real
driving forces behind my career.
"He wasn't just a great coach but a tremendous human being who knew how
to treat people properly."
When Proudfoot arrived in this country at the start of the year, he
happily posed for photographs with his new Melrose team- mate Graeme
Shiel's tiny son, Charlie.
But finding a strip for Proudfoot proved to be a bit of a problem for
the Borders club.
The rugby giant has a mammoth 50-inch chest and measures 48 inches
round the backside - and Melrose just didn't have any kit big enough to
fit their new star.
Rugby fans yesterday prepared for renewed criticism from those who
believe the game is much too violent.
It came as a leading doctor said Proudfoot's injury was potentially
"very bad" and spelled out what he was facing.
Professor David Graham of Glasgow University said: "He will undergo an
X-ray and a CT scan to discover the extent of his injury.
"The possibilities range from being concussed, in which case he would
be expected to make a full recovery, to brain damage.
"If there is a fracture of the skull it is potentially far more
serious."
Professor Graham added: "A blow to the side of the head is the
equivalent of an assault with some sort of weapon. They can sometimes
be very serious."
Rugby is one of the world's most dangerous sports because it is so
physical.
Players are more than twice as likely to sustain an injury than their
footballing counterparts.
Between 1984 and 1996, a total of five British rugby players died as a
result of the game.
But many more have had to quit the game through serious injury,
including being left paralysed.
Welsh rugby legend JPR Williams was left horribly scarred after a
stamping incident in 1978.
The record-breaking full back had his cheek sliced open by the
aluminium studs of New Zealand prop John Ashworth.
In 1986 Wayne "Buck" Shelford, the former All Blacks captain, led New
Zealand to victory against France despite being badly cut by a stud.
Ben Smoldon was left paralysed from the shoulders down after a scrum
collapsed on him eight years ago.
He was awarded £1million after judges ruled the referee was to blame.
Oxford University star Ian Tucker, 23, from Australia, died after a
Saracens player landed on top of him two years ago.
He got up and carried on playing after the tackle but collapsed again
soon afterwards.
He was given oxygen on the pitch but never regained consciousness.
Paul Jenkins, 15, also died when he collided with a team mate in 1991
during a match in Abergavenny in Gwent, Wales.

**

M-way chaos as wheels fall off bus

HeadLine: M-way chaos as wheels fall off bus

Daily Record, 28/10/1998, p19
by SHAUN MILNE

SHOCKED drivers cheated death yesterday after two wheels fell- off a
double decker coach.
Motorists heading towards Glasgow on the M8 had to brake violently and
swerve to avoid being hit.
One van being driven on the opposite carriageway was struck by the
wheels .
A police spokesman said no-one was hurt.
Two passengers were aboard the FirstBus Express heading into Glasgow
when the wheels came off.
Police said it appeared a rear nearside axle had snapped causing the
two wheels to come away from the vehicle.
The coach driver managed to bring the double decker to a controlled
halt before a replacement was ferried in.
No one was available for comment last night from FirstGroup, the
Aberdeen- based parent company of the FirstBus division.
Investigations involving Strathclyde Police and FirstGroup into how the
accident happened were continuing.

**

MOURNERS GO TO PUB WHILE GRAVE IS DUG

HeadLine: MOURNERS GO TO PUB WHILE GRAVE IS DUG

Daily Record, 31/10/1998, p31
by SHAUN MILNE AND LESLEY WRIGHT

A FUNERAL was halted for three hours after workmen forgot to dig the
grave.
More than 140 friends and family of cancer victim William Hunter had to
wait in a nearby pub - and the wake ended up coming before the burial.
An undertaker even borrowed a mobile phone from one of the mourners to
call gravediggers.
By the time the service eventually got under way at Priestfield
Cemetery in Hamilton, Lanarkshire, many mourners had gone back to work.
Last night, William's relatives were considering suing South
Lanarkshire Council. A family friend said: "We had a bit of a chuckle
at first when someone said Willie probably arranged it so he could go
to the wake.
"But everyone was really upset. It put a huge amount of strain on the
family who were suffering enough already. They were completely stressed
out and there were tears everywhere. It was crazy."
Father-of-three William, 53, died at his home in the Fairhill area of
Hamilton last Friday after a year- long battle against cancer.
The funeral procession was led by his wife Ann, 54, daughters Carol,
28, and Angela, 31, and 25- year-old son Scott.
There was an initial delay as undertakers waited for gravediggers to
appear to supervise the burial.
When they failed to show, the head undertaker borrowed a phone and
discovered the mistake.
Mourners went to Carrigan's Bar and were summoned back to the graveside
when William was finally laid to rest
The family friend added: "The council are supposed to be in charge of
the gravedigging arrangements.
"One of the undertakers said he had never seen anything like it in all
his 23 years working at funerals.
"The family are going to talk about it and then see a lawyer to find
out where they stand.
"Whoever is to blame can't be allowed to get away with this, in case it
happens to someone else."
Co-op Funeral Services blamed the council.
A spokesman said: "This was not our fault. It seems regrettably to have
been a case of human error.
"It was very unfortunate and distressing for the family and mourners."
South Lanarkshire Council have launched a probe.
A spokesman added: "We are extremely sorry for the distress caused and
have contacted the widow to express our sincere apologies."

**

IN THE END HE WANTED TO SAVE HIS OWN SKIN

HeadLine: IN THE END HE WANTED TO SAVE HIS OWN SKIN

Daily Record, 14/12/1998, p2
by Shaun Milne

ANIMAL rights activist Barry Horne was eating again last night after
giving up his hunger strike.
He agreed to end his one-man protest after studying detailed Government
documents on vivisection yesterday afternoon.
But his decision only fuelled speculation that he had not been involved
in a genuine hunger strike as he had claimed.
The Animals Betrayed Coalition last night confirmed Horne's 68-day
protest had ended.
In a statement a spokesman said: "Barry has finished going through the
papers today and at 4.30pm he rescinded his living will."
Horne was reported to have started refusing food early in October,
claiming he would only give up if the Government announced a date for
the setting- up of a Royal Commission into the use of animals in
experiments.
But medical experts said that if Horne, a 46-year-old former dustman,
had genuinely refused food for such a long time, he would have suffered
blindness and not would have been able to see any documents.
The convicted firebomber, who is serving 18 years in prison, was
apparently able to clearly scrutinise the complex documents.
Professor Michael Lean, a food and nutrition expert at Glasgow
University, said: "There is an argument that he has not been starved
quite as much as he and his supporters made out."
Earlier reports had also claimed he was close to a coma before Horne
appeared at a hospital window and waved to supporters.
The coalition spokesman said Horne's sight had deteriorated so badly
that he could only see silhouettes and the fat around his liver had
wasted away.
He said: "Barry's mind is becoming more and more affected and he is not
able to concentrate that much."
Close friend Annete Tibbles said last night: "Barry has come off the
strike because the Government has proved it would allow him to die
instead of losing face.
"The doctors and the Prison Service can confirm he didn't take anything
but water. The press have got it totally wrong."
Friend Tony Humphries said: "Barry has accepted the proposals put
forward about the All Party Animal Welfare Parliamentary Working Group
and the Animal Procedure Committee."
Animal rights fanatics had sent a hitlist to police warning of action
if Horne died.
The list was believed to have included people working at the Roslin
Institute near Edinburgh, where Dolly the sheep was cloned.
Another "target", Professor Colin Blakemore, Professor of Physiology at
Oxford University, was under police protection along with his family.
But officials say the documentation which apparently persuaded Horne to
give up his protest is "nothing new".
The documents come from a select committee headed by Goole MP Ian
Cowsey.
A Home Office spokeswoman said: "No deal has been struck. We have not
agreed to any of his demands and are at a loss to what it is he has
agreed to."
During the latter days of his protest it was revealed Horne had
secretly been taking regular fluids to sustain him.
It was thought this news being leaked, along with the contents of the
Government papers, may have played a part in his decision.
The first signs that the action would end came on an Internet website
set up for Horne saying that the documents "could result in a
successful resolution".
The Prison Service confirmed last night that Horne had requested food
and treatment.
He had been transferred back to Full Sutton Prison in York after
spending two weeks in hospital.
Doctors and senior managers decided he should be transferred back to
the jail because he had refused to be treated.
The normal running of the hospital had also been "seriously disrupted"
by protestors outside.
But the consequences of his hunger strike could rumble on.
A leading psychologist warned last week that Horne's stance could lead
to severe emotional problems for his teenage son.
This is the third time in recent years Horne has miraculously fought
back from the apparent brink of martyrdom.
The first time he gave up after 35 days and on the second occasion he
relented after 45 days.
He started this protest under the guise of saving animals but, as
before, it has ended with Horne saving his own skin.

**

KEEP SHOW CLEAN ... OR WE'LL PULL THE PLUG, VIV

HeadLine: KEEP SHOW CLEAN ... OR WE'LL PULL THE PLUG, VIV
Daily Record, 14/12/1998, p7
by Shaun Milne

WORRIED councillors will pull the plug on a massive fashion show unless
organisers guarantee it will be decent.
They fear outrageous designer Vivienne Westwood will use next month's
event to shock by unveiling a provocative range of clothing.
Westwood's shows over the past eight years have starred top names such
as Denise Van Outen and Jodie Kidd.
And many have featured models as young as 13, provoking controversy.
Some critics have even accused her of pandering to paedophiles because
of her insistence on using models of school age, which she herself
describes as "sexy''.
Shows in Paris and Milan have featured topless models, fake fur
G-strings, phallic symbols, nipple- baring robes and Harris tweed cut
to the point of indecency.
Glasgow City Council are demanding cast-iron promises the event -
Scotland's biggest catwalk fashion show - will not overstep strict
decency terms as set down in the SECC's public entertainment licence.
If they are not satisfied, they have the power to stop the show, which
is expected to attract an audience of 2000.
Westwood is expected to try to spice up the Scottish fashion scene with
several risqu, specially- designed outfits, priced at between £200 and
£20,000, using tartan and tweed.
But Glasgow councillor Alex Mosson, whose ward covers the SECC, warned
that the authority would take a dim view on any show that damaged the
city's reputation.
He said: "I'll be raising this with the committee to see if this show
meets the criteria and conditions laid down in the licence.
"We want to find out if it would it be offensive to the public and
raise concerns about whether this is really a fashion show or if it is
really something else.
"We are in no way prudes. But it is important to protect people of an
impressionable age by ensuring this show does not overstep the mark."
He said the committee would be seeking assurances and warned that if
they did not receive them they could take action against the show,
which is charging £50 plus for tickets.
A share of profits from the Westwood event is to go to charity, but
that will have no bearing on any council decision.
One source said: "We are aware of Vivienne Westwood and the activities
she gets involved in.
"Concern has been expressed from some wondering if this is the type of
show suitable for Glasgow."
Earlier this year, Glasgow councillors voted to ban the Erotica
exhibition which had been due to take place this month.
It followed complaints that the show, featuring sex aids, would cause
offence and tarnish the city's reputation.
Westwood, 56, rose to fame as the originator of punk with partner
Malcolm McLaren.
Last night, no one from fashion show organisers the Publicity Club of
Glasgow could be contacted for comment.

**

Puppies left to drown get new home

HeadLine: Puppies left to drown get new home

Daily Record, 14/12/1998, p19
Shaun Milne

THREE puppies saved from drowning have been found a new home together -
thanks to the Record.
The pups were found by chance below the tideline of the River Forth,
where they'd been left to drown.
They touched the hearts of the nation after their story was told by us
last Thursday.
Callers jammed the phone at the stray dogs' shelter where the pups were
taken after local girl Debbie Peyton heard their whimpers.
Debbie, 25, alerted her father, Chris, who found them on the river bank
at Stirling, cold, hungry and close to being engulfed by the tide.
Yesterday, they were settled in at their new home in Prestonpans, East
Lothian.
After a meal, they were introduced to their new names - Sally, Susie
and Sadie.
New owner John Brash said: "We saw their picture in the Record and
couldn't bear the thought of them being parted after all they had been
through together."
Mr Brash, 71, and his wife, Isobella, 58, picked up the three pups
personally from the pound.
He said: "The rules of the dogs' shelter meant that we had to pay for
them. I'm not a rich man but I didn't care what the price was.
"I just wanted to make sure they had a good home."
Mr Brash hit out at whoever left the pups to drown: "Dogs can be taken
to places which wouldn't affect a person's conscience these days.
"If they really didn't want the pups, they still didn't need to leave
them out in the cold and damp weather to die."

Duke wants lotto cash to patch up castle

HeadLine: Duke wants lotto cash to patch up castle

Daily Record, 28/12/1998, p11
by SHAUN MILNE

SCOTLAND'S premier peer wants lottery money to restore his rotting
family seat.
The Duke of Hamilton - one of the richest men in Britain - has asked
for financial help to repair Lennoxlove Castle which has dry rot.
The duke, who as Hereditary Keeper of Holyroodhouse is Scotland's
leading aristocrat, wants the lottery to help pay for roof repairs.
But he was accused of living up to his family motto of "Never Behind"
yesterday.
The duke, who has a history of drink driving offences, was defiant last
night at his East Lothian home.
He is pleading poverty despite selling a family portrait of Queen
Elizabeth I for £140,000 recently.
The duke said: "Four hundred historic houses have disappeared in the
last 20 years and, if we are not careful, we will have lost them all by
half way through the next century.
"The tower at Lennoxlove has dry rot and we are now approaching the
National Lottery to see if they can help.
"Lennoxlove should be used as an educational tool to bring history
alive."
The duke, who did not reveal the extent of his application, believes
many aristocrats now find their family seats a burden.
He added: "There is no way private individuals could afford to run them.
"Lennoxlove is a charity, if these homes were not charities they would
all fall down.
"This is an historic house open to the public. We live in a farmhouse -
it's cheaper."
Earlier this year, there was uproar when it was revealed one of the
duke's neighbours, the Earl of Rosebery, applied for lottery funding to
restore his palace at Dalmeny House.
Labour MP John McAllion last night slated the duke for his lottery bid.
He said: "He is the last person who should get funding. I do not think
the working class would like to see their money going to help out
dukes.
"They should look to their own resources. Hereditary peers should be
abolished anyway."
His sentiments were echoed by Tommy Sheridan of the Scottish Socialist
Alliance.
He said: "The lottery is a replacement for public investment and any
private causes should be barred.
"Money is going to the over-privileged when it should be for the under-
privileged."

**

OUR GARDEN'S DEADLY

HeadLine: OUR GARDEN'S DEADLY

Daily Record, 26/04/1997, p5
By SHAUN MILNE

A couple say their street is a death trap after a THIRD car crashed into their house.
Jack and Myra Sneddon were in their garden - just minutes before a car ploughed through their fence.
Last night, Myra, 59, of Bo'ness, West Lothian, said: "I'm scared stiff. We're sick of it."
Two years ago, Jack, 62, escaped injury when a car smashed through their bedroom wall. The year before, a car hit the same wall and caused exterior damage.
Myra added: "This can't go on. Council officials are coming to see me.
"I want them to have speed restrictions and a barrier put up."
A Falkirk Council spokeswoman said: "It's a tremendous run of bad luck but there appears to be no common thread."

**

John blows up flat cooking his breakfast

HeadLine: John blows up flat cooking his breakfast

Daily Record, 23/04/1997, p15
by SHAUN MILNE AND BILLY ADAMS

A man cheated death yesterday when his home was blown apart by a gas explosion as he cooked his breakfast.
The blast caved in walls and shattered windows and could be heard several miles away.
A major disaster was only avoided because the rush-hour had just died down in the area of Edinburgh.
The blast is thought to have been caused by a gas build-up in John Fleming's kitchen.
John, 29, was cooking breakfast in his second-floor tenement flat in Wardlaw Street, Edinburgh, when the explosion happened just after 9am.
Debris shattered flat windows and car windscreens up to 50 yards away.
Patrick Kerrigan, 62, who lives in a flat opposite, said: "I heard a big bang and next thing I knew I was covered in glass. It was terrifying. I thought a bomb had gone off."
Scores of people were evacuated to a nearby day centre, some badly shaken and wearing only nightclothes.
John was rushed to hospital where his condition was described as "stable" last night.
An ambulance spokesman said it was a miracle only one person had been hurt. He added: "It's lucky the rush hour was over and people weren't walking in what is normally a busy street.
Police said the explosion seemed to have come from John's cooker but investigations were continuing.
* TWO people died in an horrific gas blast in Edinburgh's Guthrie Street in October 1989.

**

Rev's out to rock the world

HeadLine: Rev's out to rock the world

Daily Record, 22/04/1997, p3
by SHAUN MILNE

A minister is taking time out to go on the road with a ROCK band.
The Rev Albert Bogle and his band have been invited to tour with their Celtic-rock style music across the US and Canada.
But the minister, from St Andrew's Parish Church, Bo'ness, West Lothian, says it's just another way of spreading God's word.
The Bogle Band, who have made four albums, will make their TV debut in New York on the June tour organised by the Presbyterian Church of North America.
Albert said: "Some people have called me the rocking rev but that makes us sound like a joke. We take our music very seriously."
Their set uses screens hooked up to a multi-media system, projecting images to illustrate messages.
Albert added: "I'm a busy minister. I've got to bury the dead, care for people and other things. This is just a hobby."
The Bogle Band, whose other members are Keith Tait, Ash Kimber, Ian Wilson and Iain and Colin Jamieson, plan a new album in the autumn on their own label.

**

A cruel twist to anti-fur protest

HeadLine: A cruel twist to anti-fur protest

Daily Record, 11/04/1997, p35
by SHAUN MILNE AND RAY NOTARANGELO

A one-woman campaign against animal cruelty is driving her neighbours up the wall.
Eccentric Sandra Busell has plastered the windows of her ground-floor flat with anti-fur trade posters of dead animals dripping in blood.
And her protest is bad news for Steve and Dawn Proudler.
They live next door and are trying to sell their flat.
But would-be buyers take one look at their elderly neighbour's anti-cruelty display - and decide they don't want to move in.
The Proudlers haven't had one offer - although the flat's been on the market for nearly a year and more than FIFTY couples have been to view it.
Dawn, 29, described her neighbour's home as a "house of horrors".
She said: "Lots of people ask me if it's a party of animal rights activists that live there.
"You should see the look on their faces when I tell them it's just a little old woman on her own."
The Proudlers' two-bedroom flat in Edinburgh's Marchmont area is up for sale at £85,000.
The couple, who have two children, want to move to a bigger house.
Steve, 35, who owns the nearby International Bar, said: "People have told their lawyers that they're extremely interested in the house but worried about next door."
He has tried in vain to coax his neighbour into taking down the posters.
He said: "She just runs away and hides and will only talk to you through the letter box. It's just so frustrating."
An Edinburgh estate agent said it was unusual for houses in Marchmont to stay on the market for so long - they're usually snapped up in weeks.
Last night, there was no answer at the next-door flat.

**

Safety probe over fears at gas plant

Headline: Health Fears over gas safety plant
Daily Record, 10/04/1997, p19
by SHAUN MILNE

Safety bosses have launched a probe at a giant gas plant.
Worried workers claim their lives are at risk.
They say staff cuts have jeopardised safety at Shell UK's Natural Gas Liquids plant at Mossmorran in Fife.
It follows two separate incidents within five weeks which led to fears of a disaster.
One worker at the plant, who asked not to be named, said he and his colleagues there were "worried sick".
He said: "We had an oil pump go on fire and very nearly blow up. Then two site trucks - the only ones in the whole place at the time - crashed into each other.
"They've hived off so many staff there's just not enough left to carry out proper maintenance and safety checks."
Shell said around 80 staff still worked on the site after 13 of their own workers and more than 40 contractors were made redundant last year.
A Shell spokesman added plant bosses "fully understand" staff concerns but said Mossmorran had a good safety record.
He said: "If we thought the changes would have a detrimental effect on safety they would not have been implemented."
The Health and Safety Executive confirmed they have launched a probe.

**

LEAVE MOBY ALONE TO HAVE A WHALE OF A TIME

HeadLine: LEAVE MOBY ALONE TO HAVE A WHALE OF A TIME

Daily Record, 26/03/1997, p11
by By SHAUN MILNE

Experts trying to get stranded sperm whale Moby out of the Forth yesterday pleaded with people to leave him alone.
Just as it was thought the 40-ft whale was finally heading for the open seas, he was spotted swimming in circles off Leith.
But rescue co-ordinators say he should now be left to rest after six stress-filled days in the Forth.
They hope he'll make his way downstream but fear he'll just beach himself to die.
Whale expert Bob Reid said: "Three times it has been herded out and three times it has come back.
"It's chosen this area for a reason, whatever that may be, and who are we as human beings to drive it out?
"Maybe it's totally exhausted and wants to rest. That means it's harassment if we try to force it out.
"We should leave it and watch over the next few days to see what happens and if there's any change be flexible enough to have a rethink."
SSPCA inspector Mike Flynn said they fear Moby is ill but said there was no possibility of putting the beast out of its misery. He said: "You would need such a huge amount of drugs you would pollute the Forth.
"There is no humane way of killing it even if it comes ashore. It would die in four or five hours on its own."
If that happens a post mortem will be carried out.

**

ACID CLOUD TERROR

HeadLine: ACID CLOUD TERROR

Daily Record, 21/03/1997, p13
by Shaun Milne and Nick Britten

A deadly acid cloud brought terror to a town for the second time in a week yesterday.
Grangemouth was completely sealed off after a spill from chemical giants Zeneca.
Two people were rushed to hospital and a full emergency plan swung into operation.
Fire and ambulance crews raced to the scene and hospitals were on red alert.
Traffic ground to a standstill as all roads into the Stirlingshire town were blocked and people prepared to evacuate their homes.
Pensioner Vera Murray, 72, said: "It was like something out of the Blitz.
"It just shows in a town like this, with so many industrial plants, a small incident can wreak havoc."
Aluminium chloride escaped from the pigment factory pipes into the draining system.
Once mixed with water there, it formed a corrosive and potentially lethal gas.
A female cleaner suffering shock and a policeman who inhaled fumes were taken to Falkirk Royal Infirmary. Last night, both were satisfactory.
A major probe was launched into the scare which broke out at 6.40am.
Four nightshifters working near the leak escaped unhurt. Within minutes, Zeneca bosses sealed off the plant and sent out gas detector vans to patrol the site.
As firefighters hosed down the building, police set up roadblocks on all routes to the town, causing huge tailbacks on the M9.
The all-clear was sounded two hours later.
Tom Shields, Zeneca works manager, said: "I cannot guarantee there was no danger to the public.
"We will take appropriate measures to make sure this doesn't happen again."
But last night the people of Grangemouth remained unconvinced.
Gran Isobel Love said: "This place is a timebomb."
"There is a warning siren in Grangemouth. Why on earth was it not sounded?
"If there was no danger to the public why did they block roads off and why are there people in hospital?
"And if they had to evacuate us how would they do it with traffic in such chaos?"
Bosses said the plant would open within 48 hours.
Last weekend, Zeneca tipped toxic waste into a sewage treatment works.
The Scottish Environmental Protection Agency, already probing the first incident, dispatched officials to the scene yesterday.
Zeneca bosses could face jail over yesterday's scare.
Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 they face an unlimited fine and up to three years in prison.

**

Cyclist Andy falls 40ft off bridge and grazes thumb!

HeadLine: Cyclist Andy falls 40ft off bridge and grazes thumb!

Daily Record, 18/03/199, p7
by Shaun Milne

A cyclist was thanking his lucky stars last night after cheating death.
Andrew Hawdon clipped a kerb, somersaulted over a 4ft bridge parapet, plunged 40ft on to rocks - and only grazed his thumb.
Mercy men said it was a "miracle" - while his relieved missus has vowed to ban him from ever getting in the saddle again.
Emergency crews using abseiling equipment spent over an hour trying to rescue Andrew, 52, after residents raised the alarm.
The amateur dramatics fan, of Drumbrae North, Edinburgh, was heading home on Sunday night after rehearsals of the play Tons of Money at the city's Churchill Theatre.
The financial adviser also narrowly missed spiked railings in the plunge at the Dean Bridge.
Wife Pat, 32, said: "He's been very, very lucky. Somebody up there was definitely looking after him.
"If he hadn't been wearing his cycle helmet I don't think he would be here now. It saved his life. Police said his bike is basically OK except for a buckled front wheel.
"But as you can imagine, I've got other thoughts on that. There's no way I'll be letting him ride a bike again."
Pat revealed it was the second serious accident Andrew had had on his bike. She added: "He broke his back when he fell off in a car park five years ago."
Andrew's daughter Penny, 16, burst into tears with relief when she saw her dad in hospital.
Fire brigade spokesman Gary Laing said: "It was truly a miracle escape, the most bizarre I have ever known.
"It appears the cyclist gathered speed on the hill approaching the bridge and didn't manage to take the sharp turning at the bottom."
An ambulance spokeswoman said: "We couldn't believe he escaped so lightly."
Andrew was hauled up through a window of a house overlooking the scene.
He was rushed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary and was still under observation last night.
The Tons of Money show is due to open tomorrow night, but it was unclear whether Andrew would still be taking part.
**

BABY DEAN BOUNCES OFF A BUS

HeadLine: BABY DEAN BOUNCES OFF A BUS

The Mirror, 11/03/1997, p13
by SHAUN MILNE

Bouncing babe Dean Noble suffered just cuts and bruises after being struck by a coach.
The two-year-old survived even though he was hit head-on by the vehicle and could even be allowed home from hospital tomorrow.
The miraculous escape happened on Sunday night after he wandered into the path of an Intercity Express coach at Danderhall, Edinburgh.
He was rushed by ambulance to the city's Sick Kids hospital with blood streaming out of wounds to his head.
As he recovered from the horrific ordeal last night, relieved mum Tracie, 23, sobbed: "I can't believe he's still here."
Doctors put four staples into his head to seal cuts and butterfly stitches in a wound on his forehead.
Tracie, from Union Place, Edinburgh, added: "Apart from that he's fine. He's been so, so lucky. I just can't believe it happened.
"We were at the bus stop and I was trying to fold a pushchair up. When I turned round he was on the road.
"The bus just hit him, it carried him along for a bit then just threw him to the side. All I could do was scream.
"The traffic stopped and there were people all around me, I don't know who, because all I could think of was just to talk to him."
Police investigating the accident said they had no plans to bring any charges against the coach driver.

**

Mrs Mopps bale out bungling Navy chiefs

HeadLine: Mrs Mopps bale out bungling Navy chiefs

Daily Record, 05/03/1997, p3
by SHAUN MILNE

Six Mrs Mopps sailed to the rescue of one of the country's most up-to-date warships.
They climbed aboard after bungling Navy chiefs tried to cast off without enough crew.
Plans to put Type 42 destroyer HMS Newcastle through sea trials after a £27 million refit at Rosyth dockyard were almost sunk when the crisis surfaced.
But cleaners from Fife-based Aadvark Cleaning Company saved the day by plunging for a life on the ocean wave. A Navy spokesman yesterday blamed staff cuts for the farce, but insisted the rookie sailors helped to keep everything ship-shape.
The six women, who each received a £20 weekly bonus, had separate quarters during their six-week stint.
They laid out tables, did the washing up and tidied in the dining halls.
Mum-of-two Liz Henry, 44, from Rosyth, said: "None of us had ever been to sea before on a warship so when they put the idea to us a few months ago we thought we would give it a bash.
"It's an experience I wouldn't have missed for the world. It was really quite exciting."
Jackie Healy, 18, from Dunfermline was already thinking about joining the Navy and hopes to pursue that career following her stint at sea.
She said: "I've really enjoyed being on board. It's been a laugh."
All six had to complete sea survival and fire fighting training before being allowed aboard.
They also had to cope with storms while the ship completed trials off the south coast operating out of Portsmouth.
Their boss, Rod Currie, said: "It's the first time this has happened as far as I know, but hopefully it's something that will happen again.
"They're a really good bunch and were treated well by the Navy."
HMS Newcastle, normally boasting a crew of 240, was yesterday back on duty without its new-found passengers.
A Navy spokesman admitted there was a problem staffing ships out of action, saying: "All three armed forces are suffering from a fall off in levels of recruitment."

**

YOU'RE BARRED

HeadLine: YOU'RE BARRED

Daily Record, 17/02/1997, p17
by SHAUN MILNE

A boys' football team have been banned from playing at home because their goals are three FEET too small.
Now Anvil Amateur Football Club say they may be forced to disband.
The nets at Midlothian Council's Waverley Park pitches in Bonnyrigg measure just 21ft by 7ft, instead of 24ft by 8ft.
It was the scene of Anvil's shock 7-3 Scottish Cup victory over favourites Broomhall BC from Edinburgh in November.
Broomhall later complained about the goal size .
It was the first complaint in a dismal two-and-a-half season run for Anvil. They've only won a handful of games.
League chiefs inspected the posts and banned Anvil from staging any home games in the Lothian Federation Boys' League at the park.
The stunned club say the extra travelling to "home" games at Rosewell and Newtongrange means they may have to fold - and upset 40 youngsters on their books.
Club leader Danny Grant said it's just "red tape".
He added: "We've got laddies here aged between nine and 12 who just want to play football. It's supposed to be a fun thing. We actually lose most home games."
The ban comes amid a Scottish Football Association drive to use smaller pitches to develop young talent.
Danny added: "All we're doing is what the SFA have been encouraging, but we're being penalised for it."
Bonnyrigg councillor Bill Geddes said Waverley Park is a three-quarter size pitch but there are full size ones at King George V Park in Bonnyrigg and at Lasswade.

**

Samaritan run down saving a tit

HeadLine: Samaritan run down saving a tit

Daily Record, 31/01/1997, p33
by SHAUN MILNE

An animal lover tried to rescue an injured bird from a busy road.
And it landed good samaritan Terry Garvey in hospital.
For the 58-year-old was clobbered by a car as he tried to save the tiny blue tit.
Insurance firm worker Terry was taken to hospital in Edinburgh with a broken leg.
And yesterday his wife Mary said: "He's always doing things like that. He's a big softie at heart."
At home in Hawkcraig Road, Aberdour, Fife, Mary told how the accident happened in Craigleith Road, Edinburgh.
She said: "Terry said he'd been driving along when he saw a little bird fluttering on the road. So he pulled over to try to help it.
"He picked it up and turned round to see this car coming at him. And that was it, really.
"I know he is in a lot of pain, but I'm sure he would do the same thing again."
Mary said she didn't know what happened to the bird.
She added: "He's quite sensitive and is always doing things like that if he sees injured animals on the road.
"I think he'll be quite embarrassed about this."
Terry, who had a metal pin put in his leg, was expected to stay in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary for several days.

**

A chip off the old ballcock!

HeadLine: A chip off the old ballcock!

Daily Record, 27/05/1997, p11
by Shaun Milne Exclusive

A dad delivered his daughter in a toilet - 28 years after he was born the same way.
Dean Howes turned midwife when girlfriend Susan Cosgrove, 30, went into labour.
The forklift truck driver kept his cool to deliver the couple's first child.
After getting Susan and daughter Bethany home last night from hospital - where they were taken after the birth - he beamed: "It's just the best feeling in the world, I'm so happy.
"I've never seen a birth before never mind do one. I just knew I was the only one who could help."
Susan started having contractions on Thursday at home in Craigshill, Livingston, West Lothian. By 9pm, they knew the baby wasn't going to wait for an ambulance.
An hour later Bethany - weighing just 4lb 13oz - let out her first cries in the toilet after a little help from dad.
He said: "My mum had to deliver me at home by herself.
"I told Susan to give it one big push and when she did the baby's body just fell out into my arms.
"She wasn't breathing and for a second we thought we were going to lose her.
"Then I remembered my mum telling me how I needed a slap to make me breathe - so that's what I did."
Susan said: "Dean was amazing, I fell in love with him all over again. We let the ambulancemen cut the cord. I think Dean had done enough."
An ambulanceman said: "We congratulate Dean on the cool, calm and collected way he carried out the delivery."

**

I CREAMED RACING PUNDIT JOHN

HeadLine: I CREAMED RACING PUNDIT JOHN

Daily Record, 16/07/1997, p19
by Shaun Milne

The prankster who creamed racing pundit John McCririck live on TV was unmasked yesterday.
Jock Mackay pushed a cake into the outspoken tipster's face as millions watched Channel Four's racing coverage last week.
But Jock, 47, was eating humble pie yesterday and told the TV presenter: "I'm sorry."
He said: "It was meant as a joke and a bit of harmless fun. I was pretty refreshed, I'd drunk about 20 lagers. Some pals suggested it might be a good idea.
"I called out, but he ignored me so I just squashed it into his face. It made a real mess."
Jock, of Bridgeton, Glasgow, struck as McCririck gave his tips for the July Cup at Newmarket.
Jock, now living in Newmarket, said other punters treated him like a hero.
McCririck was left raging after the stunt and at first demanded all involved be arrested.
But yesterday he said: "I am glad the man has been unmasked but I don't want to take the matter any further."

**

SCOTS MARINES WIPED OUT IN HOLIDAY CRASH

HeadLine: SCOTS MARINES WIPED OUT IN HOLIDAY CRASH

Daily Record, 19/07/1997, p19
by Shaun Milne

Three Scots Marines were killed yesterday when their car smashed into a road sign.
Police said they suspected a tyre had blown out and the driver had not been speeding.
No other vehicles were involved, but two lorries crashed as they avoided the wreckage and caused a 20-car pile-up.
Two people were treated for shock.
Royal Marine colleagues based in Glasgow were trying to contact the victims' relatives last night.
The three reservists died instantly when their car suddenly swerved across three lanes of the A38 at Kennford, near Exeter.
One was thrown clear, and two were trapped in the wreck.
Two friends, travelling in a car in front, were back in their Marine barracks at Lympstone in Plymouth last night. Both were deeply shocked.
Last night the names of the victims were being withheld by police and MoD officials.
Three others died on Scotland's roads in just 24 hours.
In Aberdeen, William McPherson, 53, of Bridge of Don, died of a heart attack at the wheel of his car, which careered through a packed pedestrian precinct at more than 60 miles an hour.
Stallholders dived for cover as the car crashed 200 yards through the Castlegate market.
It demolished a huge rubbish bin before smashing through two railings into a wall. But amazingly, no one was hurt.
Mercy crews battled to free the man from the wreckage, but he was dead at the scene.
Trader John Dow, 31, said: "It was absolutely horrific. The car just came screaming through the market and missed stalls and cafe seats by inches.
"I just can't believe how it didn't hit anyone, because it was rush-hour traffic."
At Carnwath, Lanarkshire, a 46-year-old driver died after a head-on collision with another car on the A70.
In Glasgow, a 42-year-old cyclist died after a collision with a car in Winton Drive, Kelvinside.

**

IT'S ENVIRON-MENTAL!

HeadLine: IT'S ENVIRON-MENTAL!

Daily Record, 25/07/1997, p27
by Shaun Milne

Greenpeace were left red-faced last night when one of their own ships was impounded for breaking pollution rules.
The 900-ton vessel was confined to port in Stornoway after a spot check by safety officials.
It could mean two Greenpeace protesters on Rockall will starve because the boat was to supply them with food.
Marine Safety Agency inspectors discovered vital records relating to tests on oil equipment on board the MV Greenpeace had lapsed.
The swoop followed complaints from a survey ship, the GO Explorer, that Greenpeace had impeded their work.
The missing certificate was for a part which keeps a check on fuel and oil emissions from the ship.
Greenpeace stressed the equipment was working but conceded the blunder was a bad example to set to others.
Spokeswoman Mirell Lindenfels last night admitted: "It's ironic. We consider these types of certificates to be important and are taking steps to ensure it doesn't happen again."
The MSA warned the eco-warriors' ship would only be allowed to leave the port on the Isle of Lewis IF it passed a stringent inspection.
A spokesman said: "They've detained the vessel until a survey has been completed, which normally takes about a week to complete.
"The ship can't leave port until the defect has been remedied."
The environmentalists had been shadowing oil surveying ships in the Atlantic west of the Shetland Isles when the MSA swooped.

**

Charity men crushed to death by seawall

HeadLine: Charity men crushed to death by seawall

Daily Record, 07/08/1997, p4
by Shaun Milne and Grace McLean

Two young workers were killed last night after a seawall collapsed on them.
They died entombed beneath a giant concrete slab despite a frantic seven- hour race to free them.
Early today, mercy teams in a remote part of the Orkneys pulled the two bodies from the rubble.
Earlier, rescuers had mounted a massive operation in a desperate bid to reach the trapped victims, who worked for the Prince's Trust charity.
Scores of villagers joined police, fire brigade and Coastguard teams working under floodlights.
And Prince Charles - the charity's patron - had asked to be kept informed of the rescuers' progress.
The accident happened at 5pm at Westness, North Ronaldsay, as the men - believed to be in their 20s and from the Dundee area - laid concrete at the foot of the wall.
A four-ton section fell on top of them and trapped the pair underneath.
Extra firefighters were flown in from Kirkwall by helicopter to help local volunteers. They were joined by building experts.
The operation was hampered by 15 tons of wall suspended above the trapped men.
Mercy teams feared that if they moved the smaller section to get the men out, the whole lot would come down.
Two JCBs were also brought in to move the wall and an air ambulance at Kirkwall was on stand-by.
The two workers were part of a 13-strong team working under the supervision of the royal charity. Details of the rest of the party were unclear.
The charity operates throughout Scotland and almost 2000 young people aged 16 to 25 have taken part in programmes since 1991.

**

PARTY FOR INDIA'S GOLDEN DAY

HeadLine: PARTY FOR INDIA'S GOLDEN DAY

Daily Record, 16/08/1997, p12
by SHAUN MILNE

The 50th anniversary of India's independence was celebrated across Scotland yesterday.
Indian communities partied to mark the end of British rule in India.
In Glasgow, George Square was transformed for the big day as thousands turned out in traditional Indian costume.
A wall of sound greeted passers-by as bands kept the 5000 crowd entertained.
The Association of Indian Organisations co-ordinated the celebrations, backed by the council and other groups.
Chairman Sewasingh Koli said: "I'm one of the lucky ones who witnessed the celebrations in Delhi in 1947. Now I'm witnessing the golden jubilee. It's an historic day."
Scottish bands joined Indian musicians on a 1000-strong procession to George Square, led by World War II veterans.
Glasgow City Council held a special civic lunch hosted by Lord Provost Pat Lally.
A gala concert is to be held on Sunday in the Royal Concert Hall.
In Edinburgh, the Indian Consul General Parveen Goyal, attended a large party in Princes Street Gardens.
He joined the city's Lord Provost Eric Milligan and other guests at the Ross Bandstand .
The celebrations come a day after Scots Pakistani communities held their parties.
India and Pakistan both gained independence from Britain on August 15, 1947.

**

FRIGHT WEDDING

HeadLine: FRIGHT WEDDING

Daily Record, 23/08/1997, p19
by SHAUN MILNE

The wackiest wedding of the year yesterday had register office staff thinking they'd walked into a scene from the Rocky Horror Show.
One half of the happy couple wore a short white dress, veil and thigh- length boots - and that was the groom.
The bride was dressed to thrill in a black leather and lace basque and the best man was a woman.
The guests got in on the act too - they carried whips and sported a variety of outrageous leather, rubber and PVC costumes.
Passers-by stopped in amazement as the wedding party arrived outside the Park Circus register office in Glasgow.
But they burst into applause as the couple, who live in the centre of the city, kissed on the steps before going in to tie the knot.
Groom John McGeechan, 28, a law student, said later: "It's just a bit of fun. We're off to have some drinks now and are having a big party later."
And new wife Fiona, 29, who's studying psychology with the Open University, added: "We got married this way because we're fun- loving people."
One pal said: "They're pretty crazy, but you couldn't meet a happier, nicer couple of people."

**

Town at war over kiddies' racism claims

HeadLine: Town at war over kiddies' racism claims

Daily Record, 26/08/1997, p20
by SHAUN MILNE

A bitter row has split a country town after it was branded one of the most racist in Scotland.
English newcomers say they are being driven from their homes by bigots.
But locals in Brechin, Angus, say the new English residents are to blame for rising crime rates.
One worried parent has even kept her two children from school because of anti- English playground taunts.
Mum-of-two Gail Anderson, 43, claims daughter Kathryn, 13, is too scared to go back to Brechin High.
And she alleged youngest daughter Joanne, 10, was victimised at Andover Primary despite complaints to staff.
She said: "They are both terrified of going back to school. I don't know what the parents are telling their children as it's worse than ever."
Disabled Joan Kershaw, 42, who moved from Manchester in March, claims she has been the target of abuse.
She said: "These people are being racist and don't want incomers. This whole thing is making me ill."
The row began after community councillor Audrey Mitchell blamed incomers for rising crime figures.
Before a special meeting of Brechin Community Council last night she defended her claims about "undesirables" and criticised Angus Council for giving them houses.
She said: "I think it is terrible. I would rather see some of these houses stay empty."
Community council vice-convener Gordon Hill backed her stance and said: "We must ensure that Brechin is not being used as a dustbin."
But Angus Council leader Ian Hudghton added: "I am concerned to hear these allegations."

**

Boy mauled by Japanese fighting dog

HeadLine: Boy mauled by Japanese fighting dog

Daily Record, 27/08/199, p8
by SHAUN MILNE AND MAGGIE MALLON

A little boy was savaged by a 10-stone dog as he played just yards from his home last night.
Four-year-old Jamie Longridge was attacked by an Akita - which is also known as a Japanese fighting dog.
The tot suffered cuts to his head and body and was rushed by ambulance to Yorkhill Children's Hospital in Glasgow.
His distraught parents, Maggie and George, and big brother Christopher, 10, were at his bedside.
A hospital spokeswoman described his condition as "quite comfortable".
The horror happened at around 6.40pm near Jamie's home in Second Avenue, Clydebank.
He and his pal - whose dad owned the dog - were play fighting when the animal suddenly turned on him.
Neighbour Deborah O'Donnell, 20, said: "I heard Jamie screaming and ran to the window. He was covered in blood and crying."
Tracey Brooks, 25, witnessed the attack and helped pull the dog off Jamie.
And she claimed the same animal - called Sumo - savaged her six-year- old son Kenneth a month ago.
She said: "Poor wee Jamie was in a terrible state and all the kids were screaming and running around terrified.
"The attack was almost identical to the one on Kenneth. The same thing happened - the dog was playing without a leash with a group of children behind the flats.
"Kenneth was bitten on the side of his face and had to have 14 stitches."
Tracey added: "These dogs are hunting dogs.
"They were bred to fight bears so they've got a killer instinct - they shouldn't be kept near children."
Sumo's owner Brian Barr, who lives in the same street, agreed to have the dog put down by a vet.
He said: "I'm gutted by what happened to the wee boy. He's my four-year- old son Tony's best pal and the two of them were out playing with the dog when it happened.
"Sumo was only two and a half years old and was over-protective of my children. I can only think that is why he attacked."
Police said two men would be reported to the procurator fiscal in connection with the incident.

**

Baby shock for hols teenager

HeadLine: Baby shock for hols teenager

Daily Record, 10/09/199, p97
by SHAUN MILNE

A teenager on holiday in Majorca has given birth - without knowing she was pregnant.
Stunned Kim Gallacher, 18, started suffering crippling pains at a disco.
She was rushed to a clinic in Palma Nova on Thursday and 20 minutes later gave birth to daughter Chloe.
Kim and Chloe, who weighed in at 7lbs 2oz, were both doing well at the Juaneda clinic yesterday.
Last night, Kim, of Milton, Glasgow, said: "I just can't believe this has happened. I kept telling them they'd made a mistake, I couldn't be pregnant.
"When they put her in my arms I couldn't believe she had come from inside of me.
"It was a big shock. I've been on the Pill for over a year and my cycle has been normal. I had no idea."
Pals Amanda Hogg and Samantha Duncan cried at her bedside when they discovered unemployed Karen was having a baby.
Chloe had to be registered as a Spanish citizen and it will take two days for her to get an emergency passport.
But Kim said: "All I want to do is get home to my family."
Kim split from the baby's dad a couple of months ago.
She hopes to fly home tomorrow - after persuading the insurance company she had no idea she was pregnant.

**

BRAVE KINGSLEY DIED TRYING TO SAVE ME

HeadLine: BRAVE KINGSLEY DIED TRYING TO SAVE ME

Daily Record, 14/10/1997, p9
by Shaun Milne

A boat tragedy survivor told yesterday how his pal died trying to save him.
Kevin Haggerty, 32, spent TEN hours in bitterly cold water after his boat slowly sank at Luce Bay off the Galloway coast.
He clung desperately to the wreck as rescue helicopters failed to spot him - and only the thought of his five-year-old daughter, Amy, kept him going.
His pal, Kingsley Bradshaw, 19, drowned as he tried to swim a quarter of a mile to shore to raise the alarm.
Kevin said: "We decided one of us should try and Kingsley said he would go because he was younger and fitter.
"I emptied a petrol can and told him to use it as a float and we agreed to keep shouting to each other. He shouted twice and that was it."
The friends, of Sandhead, near Stranraer, were taking the boat out on Friday for a test run.
But it started taking in water after its engine failed, leaving them sinking and drifting out to sea.
Still exhausted from his ordeal, Kevin went on: "I went down to the beach last night.
"There was about 15 of us who just went down to lay some flowers."
Kingsley's distraught parents, Marie, 37, and Kingsley snr, 38, had made a similar pilgrimage earlier in the day.
Marie said: "The whole village was here for him. Please make sure everybody is thanked."

**

Fireworks thugs put guide dog on valium

HeadLine: Fireworks thugs put guide dog on valium

Daily Record, 16/10/1997, p11
by Shaun Milne

Fireworks attacks by yobs have led to a blind OAP's terrified guide dog being put on tranquillisers.
The thugs pounce on 80-year-old Isobell Henderson as she walks with golden labrador Roxy.
And yesterday Isobell, who stays in sheltered housing, told of her ordeal.
She said: "The first time all I could hear was this squealing noise from a rocket passing in front of us.
"It was only three yards away. I could hear them laughing at us from across the road.
"Roxy nearly jumped out of her skin but she's very loyal and kept working until we got home.
"But when I let her off the harness she went off her head."
Isobell added: "She was trembling, running about and was crying for hours. I got the vet out and he put her on tran- quillisers to calm her down.
"Since then it's happened every day with other bangers being thrown, so I've got to give her more. Her nerves are shredded.
"She won't be able to take much more and I'm scared she will be taken away from me."
Roxy refuses to go near the lane in Uddingston, Lanarkshire, where the first attack happened last Friday. And Guide Dogs for the Blind have said she may have to retire.
Disgusted police hunting the culprits said only luck prevented Roxy and Isobell from being badly injured.
Roxy has been Isobell's eyes and independence for the past four years.

**

I want my killer sister's children

HeadLine: I want my killer sister's children

Daily Record, 28/10/1997, p15
by Shaun Milne

A killer mum's daughters are at the centre of a love-tug battle.
Elaine Forrest is on three years' probation for killing her violent lover.
Her kids, Laura, eight, and three-year-old Lisa are staying with her at their new home in Holytown, Lanarkshire.
But their aunt, Christina Forrest, wants custody after caring for them for five months while Elaine was in jail awaiting trial.
Yesterday, she vowed to take her fight to the courts.
Christina, of Shotts, said: "I've seen a solicitor. I contacted the social work department as well and they've asked me to go in."
Elaine, 25, of originally of Broxburn, West Lothian, last year admitted culpable homicide after stabbing lover Desmond Hughes.
She had been repeatedly beaten and raped by him and the judge said she was no longer a danger.
Christina and partner Graeme Stead, both 36, looked after the kids while Elaine was in jail and brought them to greet their mum on her release.
But Christina said: "I've not seen them for months. I'm not allowed.
"Elaine's a walking, talking bag of nerves. I'm sick with worry.
"I can help look after her but she won't let me. It's breaking my heart.
"I told her I was putting in for custody of Laura and Lisa. She told me I was sick.
"Elaine needs help. I'd never dream of wanting custody if Elaine was OK."
But a defiant Elaine said: "It is all lies. I'm doing all right and so are the kids.
"Christina got too attached to the kids and she admitted that herself.
"We were close right up until I got my own place.
"She just couldn't handle me moving out with the bairns and started all this carry on.
"She's got no chance. I've seen a lawyer about it."
North Lanarkshire Council's social work department said they couldn't comment.

**

BOATMAN IS RESCUED IN HIS BOXERS

HeadLine: BOATMAN IS RESCUED IN HIS BOXERS

Daily Record, 29/10/1997, p20
by Lesley Wright and Shaun Milne

A frozen sailor cheated death after being found clinging to the rudder of his boat in icy waters.
Douglas Houston had jumped into the sea clad only in boxer shorts to shove his yacht off a sandbank.
But the shock of the sudden cold left him unable to do anything except hang on for his life.
By chance, three friends were sailing the same stretch of the Clyde and pulled him out.
One of the rescuers, Stephen Montgomery, 18, said yesterday: "If we hadn't sailed past, he could easily have slipped under.
"He was so cold, he couldn't speak. He was almost frozen stiff when we lifted him out the water and on to our boat.
"If we hadn't come along, he could have died."
Stephen was helped during Monday night's dramatic rescue off Helensburgh by uncle Alex, 32, and their friend, William McIndewar, 32.
The men, all of Dumbarton, tried to reach shore at Craigendoran but could not anchor their cabin cruiser on the rocky coastline.
Stephen and Alex had to row ashore to raise the alarm.
Douglas, 38, of Greenock, was taken to the Vale of Leven Hospital and treated for hypothermia. He was allowed home yesterday but was reluctant to speak about his lucky escape.
Mum Beryl said: "I can't understand how it happened. Douglas is an accomplished sailor and not one to take risks. I was surprised."
A Coastguard spokesman said: "The man decided to jump in the water and lost all his strength. He's very lucky."

**

I could hear the weans crying but heat beat me back ..

HeadLine: I could hear the weans crying but heat beat me back ..

Daily Record, 31/10/1997, p4
by Grace McLean and Shaun Milne

A hero postie told last night how he fought in vain to save a mum and her three young children from their burning home.
John Farrell tried to reach Michelle Wilson, 22, and crying tots Jackie, three, Katie, two, and eight-month-old Brian.
But he and the kids' father, David, 23, were driven back by heat and smoke.
The four bodies were found later, huddled together in a bedroom.
John, 38, had just delivered mail to the Wilsons' maisonette home in Cranhill, Glasgow, yesterday morning when the blaze erupted.
He told the Record: "It was absolutely terrible. I'll never forget it.
"I had just put some mail through their door. Next thing I knew, the windows were blown out.
"David Wilson was hanging out of a window, shouting for help.
"I could hear the weans crying. And their poor mother was screaming, screaming for help.
"I kicked the door in and tried to run upstairs to where I could hear them.
"But there were too many flames.
"I couldn't see anything and the heat was beating me back.
"I tried, I really tried. I just couldn't get to them.
"David smashed the window and climbed out. He was hanging on the ledge with his legs over the side.
"He was bleeding everywhere and only had his boxer shorts on because he was just out of bed.
"I managed to pull him on to the veranda. Before that, I told him to throw the weans to me and I'd catch them but he said he couldn't reach them.
"The kids were still crying and their mum was screaming at the top of her voice. She was desperate but there was nothing we could do.
"Then, all of a sudden, it went quiet.
"I've never wished to hear noise more than I did then. The silence was awful.
"David was just out of it - devastated. He didn't know what was going on.
"We tried to get back in but couldn't. Then the fire brigade came and took him to an ambulance."
The fire broke out at Bellrock Court, Cranhill, at 7.30am.
One neighbour said: "It was horrific. Michelle was screaming for help, then the place was engulfed."
Eyewitness Gary Collins, 27, said: "I looked out the window and there was smoke everywhere, like thick fog.
"Flames were leaping out the front and the back of the building.
"The family didn't stand a chance."
Police said: "It was a ferocious blaze which was well alight by the time we and the fire brigade arrived.
"It's a terrible tragedy, a young family wiped out in minutes."
Michelle's best friend, Donna Logue, 22, sobbed: "I can't believe she's gone.
"She used to visit me twice a week. Her children played with my little boy."
Michelle and David lost a baby son, also David, to cot death last year.
Donna added: "Michelle put the baby in a pram and walked to her mum's. By the time she got there, he was dead.
"I've known Michelle since I was 12. I'll be lost without her as a friend."
David's mum, Roseanna Wilson, was at his bedside at Glasgow Royal Infirmary.
A friend said: "The family are all shattered, just waiting on news."
The Wilsons' upstairs neighbours, Alex Cassidy, 21, mum Isabel, 47, and brothers David, 18, and Christopher, 10, ran through choking smoke to escape the fire.
Alex said: "I thought we were going to die.
"We were gagging on the smoke and could hear glass shattering and the children screaming.
"When I went to the front door, I found David sitting on the pavement crying.
"He couldn't get in to save them. He tried so hard but it was too late."
As firemen cleared away broken glass and debris at the scene, grieving neighbours handed a simple bouquet of flowers to a policeman.
He laid them respectfully at the foot of the stairwell.
Soon after, onlookers bowed their heads as four pine coffins were carried out and put in the back of a van.
Strathclyde Firemaster John Jameson said: "We are still investigating but the fire is believed to have started on the ground floor of the two-storey maisonette.
"We are still trying to establish whether the family had a smoke alarm."
Mr Jameson said Michelle, David and baby Brian were asleep in a front bedroom when the fire broke out.
Michelle ran into a rear bedroom to try to get the two girls. David escaped by jumping from the bathroom window.
Senior Divisional Fire Officer Alistair McIntyre said it took only seven minutes for firefighters to respond to a 999 call.
But flames and thick smoke were belching out of the house by the time crews from Parkhead and Easterhouse reached the scene.
Firemen fought their way into the lower half of the maisonette, then found the bodies upstairs minutes later.
Mr McIntyre said the fire appeared to have started in either the downstairs living room or kitchen and had probably been smouldering for hours before it flared up.
He added: "This has been a very poignant warning that fires are fatal.
"It reinforces the message that people should always be aware of the dangers.
"Glasgow council has a policy of fitting smoke alarms, and we are still trying to locate where in the house it may be.
"It is not unusual for smoke detectors to fall from the ceiling when you are dealing with such very high temperatures."
A council spokesman said: "Glasgow City Council is deeply distressed by today's tragedy in Cranhill.
"Our staff are involved in a full investigation into the cause of the fire."
Stunned residents yesterday slammed their straw homes as death traps.
Isabel Cassidy, who escaped from the flat above the blaze home, said: "These houses are like tinder boxes."
And the local residents association have been asking the council for years to improve fire safety.
President Rosemary McKay, 40, said: "The walls in these houses are made of compressed straw.
"There was a sickly, sweet smell in the air caused by the walls burning like matchsticks.
"These flats can go up in minutes and nobody can escape."
Vice-president Helen McGuinness, 34, wants all the flats pulled down. She said: "They are lethal."
Forensic experts took samples of the straw insulation away for tests yesterday.
But firefighters insisted the straw wasn't a major factor in the blaze.
Senior Divisional Officer Alistair McIntyre said: "The the fire itself was the problem, not the insulation."
Glasgow City Council refused to comment on complaints about the flats or the straw insulation.

**

Dad's grief as wife and three kids die in blaze

HeadLine: Dad's grief as wife and three kids die in blaze

Daily Record, 31/10/1997, p1
by Shaun Milne and Grace McLean

Young dad David Wilson was in torment last night after his wife and three young children were killed in a fire at their home.
David, 23, battled in vain to save Michelle, 22, daughters Jackie, three and Katie, two, and eight-month-old-son Brian.
He sobbed: "I have nothing left. My life is shattered. What am I going to do without them?"
As he recovered in hospital, David added: "I tried, I really tried. But I just couldn't reach them."
The blaze in Cranhill, Glasgow, erupted as the family slept yesterday morning.
David escaped by leaping through a window.
Samples of wall insulation made of STRAW were later taken away by forensic experts.
Speaking exclusively to the Record, David's mum Rosemary said: "He just can't take it in. I've got to be strong for him."
The Wilsons lost a baby son, also David, to cot death last year.
They moved into their maisonette at Bellrock Court six months ago, as they tried to rebuild their lives.
Rosemary, who lives nearby, said: "I couldn't bear to look at baby David's tiny white coffin.
"There's no way I can face this now, not so soon.
"We just had Brian christened on Sunday. Now our joy has turned to sorrow just like that.
"I'll have to move away from here. I can't walk past their house every day. I wish they'd just pull the whole place down."
Rosemary said David has chronic asthma, and suffered badly from the lungfuls of smoke he breathed in during his rescue bid.
He is also being treated for burns, and has stitches in his arms, legs and feet.
"He has always been quiet, very deep," she said.
"I don't think this will really hit him until later.
"Michelle was different, always jolly. David's life revolved around her and the kids."
Michelle's mum Elizabeth Graham was travelling north from her home in Blackpool last night.
The tragedy sparked calls for a probe into the safety of straw-lined houses in Cranhill. Locals branded them death traps.

**

Bedsore patient, 71, needed legs cut off

HeadLine: Bedsore patient, 71, needed legs cut off

Daily Record, 18/11/1997, p19
by SHAUN MILNE

A pensioner needed both legs amputated after he was left covered in bedsores at a Scots nursing home.
But 71-year-old Robert Orr was too weak to undergo the operation and he died nine days later, a fatal accident inquiry was told yesterday.
Daughter Mary Docherty said her father was taken from Kirknowe Nursing Home in Wishaw, Lanarkshire, to Law Hospital, near Carluke, covered in the painful sores.
It was there that doctors said her father was too frail for the operation.
Mrs Docherty, 49, of Castlehill Road, Wishaw, told the inquiry at Hamilton how her dad had suffered a stroke.
In April last year he fell, injuring his 72-year-old wife Jean, and it was decided he should go into the nursing home until she could recover.
Mrs Docherty, along with the rest of her family, claim the home was guilty of wilful neglect.
On June 23, her sister phoned and asked her to go to the home because she was very worried.
Mrs Docherty said she discovered her dad was in a bed soaked in urine and lying in agony.
A doctor was called the next day and the pensioner was transferred to Law Hospital.
Mrs Docherty said: "The matron said, `please don't let him go to hospital, we can look after him here'. I think she was terrified what the outcome would be."
She said the hospital doctors told her the sores were "the worst they had seen", and the doctors would complain to Lanarkshire Health Board.
Her sister, Jean McCaw, 32, from Wishaw, said she had complained to the Social Work Department and was later asked to meet the home's matron.
Mrs McCaw said the matron told her that her dad would die at the home.
Mrs McCaw added: "I was shocked. I just sat in the car and cried, I couldn't understand how this was happening."
The hearing continues.

**

THE WATER'S LOVELY

HeadLine: THE WATER'S LOVELY

Daily Record, 17/12/1997, p4
by Shaun Milne

Fatcat Ernest Chambers sickened his suffering customers yesterday - by bragging about the lovely water in his holiday paradise.
The chief executive of crisis-hit West of Scotland Water raved over the "wonderful aquatic environment" in the Maldive Islands.
Families cut off by Scotland's worst water fiasco were outraged.
One furious mum said: "Chambers should get the boot for this."
Chambers - salary £101,000 - spoke after finally returning from the £1500- a-fortnight Fun Island resort in the Indian Ocean.
He had refused to come home early, even though a diesel spill last Tuesday crippled his organisation and left 60,000 people near Glasgow without water.
Thousands of families are still having to queue for supplies in freezing cold.
Schools and businesses remain closed, and officials can't say how long the crisis will go on.
But as the Government launched a probe, tanned Chambers insisted he'd done nothing wrong.
Asked how he'd enjoyed his break, he said: "When you look at the situation here, my main memory is of the lovely aquatic surroundings.
"It is an unspoilt environment, quite beautiful."
Chambers claimed it was better for him to keep up with the chaos in Glasgow by phone.
He added: "There is no way anyone can be available all the time.
"The operations director and finance director shadow me in the executive role.
"I have full confidence in their abilities, and I respect their judgment and the way it was exercised."
West of Scotland Water have been slammed for waiting hours before warning the public of the spill, and for telling hundreds of customers their water was safe when it wasn't.
In the Commons yesterday, Labour MP Norman Godman branded quango staff "a bunch of useless incompetents" for not having a contingency plan to deal with the crisis.
Godman claimed Scotland's other two water boards were much better prepared for emergencies.
But Chambers praised his staff, saying: "When the enormity of what has happened comes out, people may have a different view.
"Restoring supplies has been a huge exercise. Staff have been working flat out."
His words only made cut-off customers more angry.
Home help Kate Allan, 49, of Milngavie, said: "He should get the boot for what he said. In fact, he should be sacked over all of this.
"We've been without water for days, and now we're being told it may not even be right for Christmas.
"Chambers should hang his head in shame, or come down and explain to people himself what is going on."
Kate said her son Terry, 28, had lost a week's wages through illness after drinking contaminated water.
Stephanie Findlay, 21, of Faifley, Clydebank, said: "It's OK for Chambers to go swanking off on holiday while we're left here.
"But how stupid can he be, telling us how good a time he had?
"We don't care what he did. We want to know what he's GOING to do."
Chambers insisted he felt sorry for customers, adding: "We're determined to have supplies restored to allow them to continue Christmas preparations."
Around 5000 households are still without water. They will be told individually when their supplies are safe.
Chambers and his fellow-bosses will have to explain themselves to an inquiry set up by Scots Secretary Donald Dewar.
Water expert Robert Fraser has until March to find out what went wrong.
Dewar told MPs that West of Scotland Water chairman John Jameson could be booted if Fraser's report proves damning.
He said: "I have spoken to the chief executive and chairman of West of Scotland Water today.
"I shall not make judg-ments before I see the report, but if further action is required I shall not hesitate to take it."
Dewar spoke as he announced a shake-up of Scotland's water, designed to get more elected councillors on to water boards.
The £50,000 a year chairmen of the East and North boards are to be replaced, with the new men earning just half that amount.
Jameson stays in post - for the moment at least.

**

YOUR TEA'S OUT!

HeadLine: YOUR TEA'S OUT!

Daily Record, 18/12/1997, p31
by SHAUN MILNE

Boffins at a top research lab have been banned from making cups of tea by Scrooge bosses.
Homemade sandwiches are also being outlawed in a bid to boost canteen profits.
Managers have ordered kettles, cups and spoons to be cleared from offices.
But the ban has provoked a furious backlash from the 200 workers at the Hannah Research Institute near Ayr - who carry out safety checks on dairy produce.
One parched boffin claimed: "Staff are to be searched on arrival in the morning to ensure they are not smuggling in kettles or secreting tea-bags.
"Unlike schoolchildren, scientists are obviously not capable of making choices about where they eat their lunches."
Bosses have sent a memo to all departments telling them of the ban, which comes into force on New Year's Day.
An institute spokeswoman said they could not keep the subsidised canteen open unless people started using it.

**

Nurse dies in front of her work pals

HeadLine: Nurse dies in front of her work pals

Daily Record, 19/12/1997, p23
by SHAUN MILNE