Drugs conviction puts Pitlochry man’s golf career hopes in doubt

A young golfer’s future as a professional player has been left hanging in the balance after he was caught with cocaine.

Ross Wallace was seen dropping a packet of the drug on the ground when police approached a group of youngsters outside a nightclub.

Perth Sheriff Court heard on Tuesday that Wallace aimed to turn professional but would now be restricted in which tournaments he would be able to compete in for the future.

The court was told several countries including some on the European Tour would not allow entry to anyone with a drugs conviction.

Wallace (20), of Tomcroy Terrace, Pitlochry, admitted having cocaine in the Perthshire town’s Atholl Road on September 9 and was fined £200.

Erica Watson, defending, said: ”This will have implications for his future, especially if he engages in employment as a golf professional. It will restrict him travelling to several countries.

”It’s not something he normally engages in. He works part-time as a bartender and resides with his mother. He is very appalled to find himself before the court.

”He had consumed a considerable amount of alcohol. He wasn’t even aware he had purchased this item and had it in his possession.”