Altnabreac couple’s trial over alleged reckless behaviour is delayed at Wick court

The trial of a couple alleged to have repeatedly stood on a rail track in the path of trains approaching Altnabreac station has been postponed.

Ian Appleby (48) and 49-year-old Elizabeth Howe, a former detective, were to have contested the allegations on June 24, at Wick Sheriff Court.

Their solicitor, Fiona MacDonald, confirmed on Wednesday that both accused were adhering to their pleas of not guilty but said that although she was fully prepared for the case, priority had been given to another trial on that date and she requested a new date be fixed.

The rail trial will now take place on July 10.

The charge accuses Appleby and Howe of having, on March 1 last year, culpably and recklessly and with “utter disregard for the consequences”, crossed barriers onto the level crossing at the station and onto the rail track while trains were approaching, to the danger of themselves and passengers and staff on board.

The pair, who live at the former station house, also deny subjecting police to threatening and abusive behaviour and struggling with officers. The accused, who were not present at the latest hearing, are banned from using the crossing when a train is due as well as being banned from going on any rail track under a condition of their bail.

The case was initially brought on indictment but was subsequently reduced to summary level.