‘Disgust’ as home of dead pensioner is ransacked
A FAMILY have spoken of their disgust at finding their relative’s remote home in Caithness ransacked just days after he passed away.
Charles Brooks’ brother, Alan, died suddenly at the age of 64 on July 20 in an isolated chalet near Forss.
Due to a problem identifying relatives, it was not until nine days later Charles was informed and headed north from his home in Wishaw.
The 67-year-old said it was bad enough to learn of the death without the added shock of finding his brother’s house broken into and looted in the meantime.
“It was only when we went up to start clearing out his house and sorting out his affairs that we found out,” he told the Groat. “I was disgusted to discover it that way. My brother did not have a lot of material possessions as he was only on disability benefits.”
Mr Brooks believes that between his brother’s passing and his own arrival – just over a week-and-a-half later – an opportunist thief took a TV, satellite box, fishing gear and a wallet and passport.
“It seems likely that someone very local who knew the situation was responsible for this theft as the chalet is isolated and not easily accessed,” he said.
“I just hope that the person responsible has this despicable crime on their conscience in the days to come and that they are suitably punished.”
Charles said the chalets are in a remote area and are normally let out to fishermen during the summer season.
He added he and his sister, who lives in Inverness, were upset that such a thing could happen, especially after just losing their sibling.
The trio kept in phone contact regularly but did not see each other often due to the distances involved.
The late Mr Brooks is understood to have been living in the area for the past couple of years having previously lived at Borgie Lodge Hotel, a shooting and fishing lodge in North Sutherland.
He suffered from arthritis and diabetes that caused him to give up work. His funeral was held last week in Inverness.
Local police have confirmed that the matter has been reported to them and that enquiries are ongoing.