Pair deny running cannabis factory at once ‘great house’ in Caithness

A once “great house” in Caithness is alleged to have been the hub of a cannabis factory.

Accused of operating the illicit plant are Philip Nicholson, of Scotscalder, and Damon Mackay, of Huddart Street, Wick.

They denied on indictment, at Wick Sheriff Court on Monday, having produced the Class B drug at Sackville House near Bower and being concerned in its supply. The offences are said to have occurred between April 6 and May 4, 2021.

Nicholson (51) and 33-year-old Mackay will stand trial on September 11.

Sackville House was built around 1840-1860 and was badly damaged by fire around 100 years ago, with “only the back parts surviving”.