Cell torch trial delay

The trial of a 57-year-old man, accused of torching his cell at Perth Prison, causing extensive damage, has been delayed until next year.

Perth Sheriff Court was told that the defence were still awaiting medical records relating to Alexander Rae.

He was to have faced trial on December 16 but that has now been put off until March 8.

A solicitor for Rae denied that on August 30, 2018, at the city’s Edinburgh Road jail, he wilfully set fire to bedding and a mattress.

The charge states that “the fire took effect and extensive damage was caused.”

A second charge alleges that the same day, he maliciously damaged a TV, a cell door spy hole, a kettle, fixtures and fittings.

The accused, of Inchkeith Drive, Dunfermline, had an earlier court hearing scheduled for February 18.