A COUNTRY estate said to be one of the finest places to hunt grouse and red deer in Scotland and frequented by royalty has been slapped with three years of restrictions after police were alerted about a poisoned eagle.

Area Commander for Moray, Chief Inspector Simon Reid said cyber and rural crime as well as “hidden harms” like domestic abuse and child exploitation are some of his top priorities.

Local organisations have joined forces to help tackle rural crime in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.

The Police Scotland-chaired Scottish Partnership Against Rural Crime (SPARC) has this week been named Best Team at the UK Combined Industries Theft Solutions Conference following a surprise nomination.

NFUS north-east regional chair, Alan Simpson commented: "We are deeply indebted to the Gray family for all their help and support in hosting this event. The farm buildings at Portsoy are ideal for these workshops. Similarly, we are very appreciative to Valtra Tractors and Alistair Young for providing soup and sandwich lunches for everyone

The need for more targeted action on species conservation and wildlife crime was highlighted, with specific actions added on tackling wildlife crime, as well as targeted support for species including beaver and capercaillie.

The incident happened between 6pm and 11pm on Saturday when the car was unoccupied in Lochore, Fife.

Fire crews worked through the night to extinguish a blaze that engulfed about 350 hay bales near Alness.
Crews from Invergordon responded to reports of the fire at around 12.30am on Saturday.

Shepherds and hill farmers say the proposals are 'inhumane' and warn the push for natural regeneration of parkland could backfire.