Desperate for work

A SHETLAND man’s “rash decision” to take a van without consent from Ollaberry to Brae in search of work has landed him with an eleven month driving ban and a fine of £600.

Ross Sutherland, of Room 8, Solheim Guesthouse, Lerwick, also pled guilty to driving the vehicle without a full licence and insurance on 25 April.

Defence agent Gregor Kelly told Lerwick Sheriff Court on Wednesday that the 27 year old, who had a provisional licence, was at the time unemployed.

He decided to take a van belonging to his friend’s grandfather that had been abandoned in Ollaberry after there was “talk of casual work” going in Brae.

However the vehicle “conked out” near Brae and ultimately came to the attention of local police.

Sutherland now has full-time employment as a joiner and has regained “focus” in his life, Kelly said.

Sheriff Philip Mann described the case as a “very serious matter”.