Fisherman in 'fish allergy' claim

Mr McPhee's solicitor said the allergy was news to his client

A fisherman accused of making a threatening call to two women has been told he was allergic to fresh fish.

The claim was made in support of a Crown bid to have Stephen McPhee, 28, banned from entering his home county of Caithness pending his trial.

Told of his intention to join a fishing boat, Fiscal depute Alison Smith said police had information of his allergy.

Granting bail, Sheriff Andrew Berry said he would not impose the Caithness ban because of an offer of employment.

Father's boat

It was alleged Mr McPhee made threats in a phone call from his home in Thurso to two women on 8 August.

He denies the charge.

During the hearing at Wick Sheriff Court, Ms Smith said that she would not oppose bail subject to special conditions.

One was that he stay out with Caithness other than to attend for court appearances.

Defence solicitor Taco Nolf said the fish allergy was news to his client who has worked at sea for two years and had been offered a place on his father’s fishing boat.

The sheriff granted bail subject to the sole special condition that he does not contact the women.

A trial was set to go ahead on 17 February.