Sentence deferred on nuisance caller

A TIREE mother has pleaded guilty to making abusive telephone calls to the island’s doctors and social work staff.

Margaret Bell, 64, of 12 Struthan Terrace, Crossapol, admitted repeatedly calling staff at Tiree Medical Practice, at all hours of the day and night, between February 12 and June 26 this year.

Oban Sheriff Court heard on Monday July 4, Bell made the calls to complain about the quality of care, and while some were just silent others turned offensive and threatening.

Procurator Fiscal Eoin McGinty said duty doctors could not function after repeatedly receiving abusive calls from Bell while on call, when they were unable to turn off their phones. Police gave her a final warning to cease, but she was arrested when the calls started again.

The court heard Bell moved to the island seven years ago with her two sons now aged in their 30s and 40s. In June 2015 her eldest son was diagnosed with terminal cancer.

Defending, Jane McLaren explained the pressures and strains made Bell turn to alcohol, which was when she would call Tiree Medical Practice.

‘She is sure she will not go back to the island and continue to drink,’ Ms McLaren said: ‘[She] only wants to go back to look after her children.’

Bell gave a solemn undertaking not to drink alcohol to Sheriff Ruth Anderson, who summed up: ‘This is extraordinary. You have disturbed and upset people from whom you expected and received care. No more phone calls!’

Sheriff Anderson deferred sentencing until August 16.