Man denies dolphin jet ski claims

The allegations relate to bottlenose dolphins in Moray

A 21-year-old man has denied recklessly harassing dolphins by driving a jet ski at high speed in Moray waters.

Nicol Wood, from Banff, was alleged to have disturbed a school of bottlenose dolphins in June last year.

The offence was said to have happened in coastal waters about half a mile offshore at Faw Bay, Macduff.

Mr Wood appeared at Banff Sheriff Court and trial was set down for later this year. It is thought to be the first case of its kind in Scotland.

He has been accused of intentionally or recklessly disturbing or harassing a dolphin by splashing water in an attempt to attract the attention of the creatures.

It has been further alleged that he drove a jet ski at high speed in a reckless and erratic manner at and around a school of bottlenose dolphins.

An intermediate diet was set for May, with a trial scheduled for June.