Author had to rely on patients’ help
WHEN author David Leslie, above, was asked to write a book on the infamous Carstairs hospital he hoped those who had run the Lanarkshire facility would be willing to help.
But he was repeatedly snubbed by the authorities who refused to answer his questions – citing “national security” grounds.
Instead, he turned to former patients to share their harrowing stories from their time in a hospital that homes the country’s most dangerously disturbed people.
Former crime reporter David, 71, said: “It was a difficult book to research and write.
“I’m very grateful to the former patients who helped me, particularly one patient who went over some very distressing memories.
“You need to remember not all of those who are held there are convicted criminals.”
But one notorious prisoner he did turn to for help was twotime killer Robert Mone.
David, who has written a number of best-selling true crime books and appeared on TV as an expert countless times, said: “He was very helpful for my research on Carstairs.
“And his chilling account of the escape is the first time any of the two has spoken about it.”
A spokeswoman for the State Hosptial said: “This book has not been supported by the State Hospital in any way.
“An approach to contribute to the content was made, however in the best interests of patients, past and present, and that of those affected by the actions of patients, the request was declined.”
Carstairs: Hospital for Horrors by David Leslie, published by Black & White Publishing, is available to buy from tomorrow, priced £9.99 for the paperback.