Thurso man denies threatening to set woman on fire in park

A Thurso man is alleged to have viciously attacked and robbed a woman in a park while partially masked.

The indictment, which John Smith (43) denies, accuses him of repeatedly kicking a woman, burning her on the neck with a cigarette and threatening to set her on fire, and repeatedly pushing her to the ground.

Smith, of Lord Thurso Court, Thurso, is also charged with robbing her of her mobile phone and a bank card, Wick Sheriff Court was told last week.

The incidents are said to have taken place at a park near Provost Cormack Drive, Thurso, on July 11, 2023.

The trial, before a jury, on June 9, is expected to last for two days.

A joint minute of agreement between the prosecution and defence is expected to be lodged.