Altnabreac Couple’s Train Line Trial Delayed After Snowbound Claim

A trial at Wick Sheriff Court was postponed after a couple accused of stepping into the path of trains said they were unable to reach court because snow had blocked the road from their remote home in Altnabreac.

Ian Appleby, 48, and Elizabeth Howe, 49, had been due to stand trial to contest allegations that they acted recklessly on the Far North Line. Two British Transport Police officers and six additional Crown witnesses were present to give evidence.

However, shortly before proceedings were scheduled to begin at 10am on Thursday, court officials were informed that the pair could not travel due to road conditions.

Procurator fiscal depute Grant McLennan initially resisted the defence request for an adjournment, telling the court that the crown question the veracity of the information that has been provided.

Sheriff Ian Cruickshank paused the case to allow BTP officers to assess the situation at Altnabreac. When the hearing resumed at 12.40pm, Mr McLennan confirmed officers had encountered severe driving conditions. He stated that they were driving a four-wheel drive vehicle and the officers had difficulty in keeping it on the road.

In light of that update, the Crown withdrew its opposition and the sheriff granted the adjournment. Bail was continued for both accused ahead of a rescheduled trial on 23 June. They were also ordered to attend a pre-trial diet on 19 March.

Appleby and Howe, of Altnabreac Station House, deny acting culpably and recklessly in a manner that endangered themselves, passengers and railway staff. The charges relate to an incident on 1 March 2024 in which they are alleged to have crossed level crossing barriers near their home while trains were approaching, showing what the indictment describes as “utter disregard for the consequences”. They further deny shouting, swearing and directing abusive remarks at two police constables, as well as struggling with them.

Image: Google Maps