New trial date for man accused of killing cat in Caithness

A new trial date has been set for an Aberdeen man accused of killing a cat with an airgun.

Peter Huntington (63) was originally due to contest the claim on September 3 but the trial won’t now take place until early next year.

Huntington is accused of causing the cat, named Sammy, unnecessary suffering and severe injuries at Cairnside, Spittal, on November 21, 2013.

He confirmed his not guilty plea at Wick Sheriff Court on Wednesday.

Huntington denies a further charge of having engaged in a course of conduct towards his partner by repeatedly sending her unwanted messages over a three-day period to her WhatsApp and her email addresses, and posting multiple packages to her home accompanied by a photo of family members and a derogatory note.

The charge also accuses Huntington, of Westdyke Drive, Westhill, Aberdeen, of leaving his partner a voice mail message and placing her in a state of fear and alarm.

Huntington will now stand trial on January 21. He is currently subject to a conditional bail order.