Published: Friday, 8th January, 2010 10:27am

Temporary thaw at Sheriff Court

Comments (1) | Print | Email

Peebles Sheriff Court

The icy fingers of the current cold snap have now even reached to Peebles halls of justice.

Peebles Sheriff Court was cancelled this Wednesday as a result of Procurator Fiscal Morag McLintock being unable to make it from Selkirk along the A72.

Numerous other court dates have also been cancelled throughout the region.

As a result a call went out for someone in the Peebles area to step up and ensure that the system didn't grind to a complete halt.

And this call was answered by former Scottish Borders Council legal eagle, Phil Daly, who was swore in yesterday morning (Thursday) at Peebles Sheriff Court.

The fifty-four year old has been temorarily appointed as the new Deputy Procurator Fiscal for the region until the end of the month.

And he admitted that he is relishing the challenge, after already donning his robes yesterday for a sitting of Peebles Justice of the Peace court.

Phil told the Peeblesshire News: "It's an honour to be appointed. It is vital to keep the wheels of justice ticking over and I'm more than glad to help.

"I didn't think twice when I got the phone call yesterday. When working with SBC I appeared numerous times before Justice of the Peace Court's so it was just a case of sitting in a different seat really.

Morag McLintock, District Procurator Fiscal for the Scottish Borders, said: "I am delighted to announce the temporary appointment of Phil Daly to the post of Procurator Fiscal Depute based at Peebles Sheriff Court.

"Phil will play a crucial role in ensuring that justice continues to be delivered to the local community during this period of poor weather and disruption. He will be providing a Crown presence in Peebles in

particular and will be appearing in court when required.

"We are committed to providing a consistent and reliable service to our communities come rain or shine and I look forward to working alongside Phil in his new capacity. I am sure that the local community will benefit from his expertise and experience."