Racist slur in row over pet

A Bannockburn woman who racially abused a neighbour during a row over dog fouling walked free from court.

Catherine Fotheringham, 55, became caught up“in the heat of the moment”after being challenged about her pet dog’s toilet habits.

The Douglas Street resident pleaded guilty to shouting racially offensive remarks during a blazing row outside her home on May 7.

Stirling Sheriff Court heard this week that the incident came on the back of a long-standing neighbourhood dispute.

Fiscal depute Lindsey Brooks said Fotheringham was in her back garden when she was confronted by a neighbour and told to clean up after her dog.

An argument erupted, Fotheringham made the offensive remark and police were contacted.

Defence solicitor Frazer McCready said:“She is mortified and remorseful for what happened. She made the comment in the heat of the moment.

“She lives with her husband and has had difficulties with the complainer and his partner for some time.

“Most of it has been to do with noise levels.

“The police have previously been involved and the council have been involved.

“She used to work night shifts and would often come home after work to sleep during the day.

“The neighbours would play loud music anyway. It got so bad she had to actually give up her job.”

Mr McCready added:“There is no fence separating the gardens and the dog must have strayed. She says she is a responsible dog owner and picks up after her dog.

“She was challenged and accepts she made a remark which she immediately regretted.

“She has been looking for work in the care industry but this conviction could have catastrophic consequences for her.”

Sheriff Wyllie Robertson told Fotheringham:“Having heard the circumstances, I am going to admonish you.”