Comic150wordsbookonwriterpanel to bail out former teacher

Coatbridge writer Mark Millar has offered to help his former teacher who has been locked up for protesting Trident.

Brian Quail, 79, taught the comic book star Latin at St Ambrose High in the 1980s and was arrested after forming a human road block outside a nuclear arms base with a female protester.

Mr Quail was placed on remand after refusing to agree not to go within 100 metres of HM Naval Base Clyde, near Helensburgh, and is due in court today.

The Kick-Ass creator said he was“horrified” and offered to pay his legal costs.

Mr Millar said of his former teacher:“He’s still fondly remembered because even as kids we knew he was a guy of tremendous convictions.

“I remember his class being filled with anti-war posters. He gave me the first CND badge I ever pinned to my blazer.

“He was blisteringly intelligent and I’ve enjoyed seeing his continued resistance in the papers over the years. Hearing he’s been locked up at 79 and not in great health, is monstrous.

“This is a peaceprotestor who’s dedicated his life to non-violent protest sent to prison for representing the vast majority of Scots who are firmly against Trident.

“I’ve written to Jeremy Corbyn and John McDonnell asking if they can help, but surely First Minister Nicola Sturgeon will intervene on behalf of Brian and fellow protestor Angela Zelter now when they need her help?

“I’ve also contacted his friends and offered to help financially if it gets these two good people back in their homes as soon as possible.

“It’s the least I can do as a thank you to my old Latin teacher.”

Help Mark Millar, left, and his former teacher Brian Quail