Newtrialdatefor mansionaccused

A new trial date has been set for two Strathearn men accused of being found in the grounds of a centuries-old mansion house in suspicious circumstances.

Appearing at Perth Sheriff Court were 36-year-old Brian Hutchinson, of Monteith Street, Crieff, and Michael Ward (55), of Ward Road, Muthill.

It is alleged that on various occasions between February 14 and 15, 2018, they were found within the curtilage of Dollerie House, Crieff, without lawful authority.

The charge adds that in all the circumstances, it might reasonably be inferred they intended to commit theft there.

They will stand trial on August 28 and had their bail continued meantime.

It was reported in February, 2015, that the house had been sold for the first time in nearly 500 years after being listed at £1.5million.

The property has belonged to the Murray family since they took ownership of its grounds in the mid-16th century.

It was sold to a private buyer after spending two years on the market.

Among its unique features is a crooked bridge designed to ward off witches and evil spirits, and a plaque dating back to the mid-1700s.

The main house is thought to have been built in 1780 to replace the original tower house which lay 100 yards north. It was demolished and used for storage thereafter.

The newer building features a plaque, brought from the old house and dated 1741, which reads:‘In humane life there’s nothing stedfast stands youth riches glorie fades deaths sure at hand’.

The inscription is signed AM (Anthony Murray), with a Murray star.