Pensioner appears in court on fire charges

A 78 year-old man has been remanded in custody facing an allegation that he set fire to his own flat in Lower Kessock Street, Inverness, on Tuesday.

Sheriff Margaret Neilson continued the case until Friday without plea at the request of defence solicitor John McColl and depute fiscal Ian Smith.

Mr Smith, who agreed continuing without plea was an appropriate course, said the allegation suggests there was a serious risk to the pensioner, Willam Urquhart and other residents.

Mr McColl told the court today that social workers did not feel prison was the right place for such an elderly person who has had difficulties and been in New Craigs Hospital in the past.

Urquhart (78) of Flat 30, Trust Housing, Lower Kessock Street,is charged with willfully setting fire to papers and the fire took effect and damaged the carpet in his flat.

He was on bail at the time of the alleged offence.

Mr McColl said no bail address was available but a social worker had applied for guardianship and they hoped to find a bed somewhere for him.

The Sheriff agreed to the motion to continue the case until Friday without plea.