A man has been kept in custody over allegations that he committed a six-figure fraud at an exclusive Angus wedding venue.
Craig Williamson appeared from the cells at Forfar Sheriff Court for the second time on Tuesday, charged with fraud at Guthrie Castle, near Forfar, over a period of almost two years.
The 42-year-old, of no fixed abode, made no plea and was fully committed ahead of an indictment being prepared under solemn procedure.
It is understood the sum involved is in excess of £140,000 and the period covered was from the summer of 2015 to April 2017.
Williamson appeared in private before Sheriff Gregor Murray and was represented by solicitor Billy Rennie.
The castle sent a letter to prospective wedding parties at the beginning of May, saying that it was to cease operating as a wedding venue because of “reputational damage” following a police investigation.
The accused’s next appearance, which is to yet be confirmed by the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, will likely be at Dundee Sheriff Court, as Forfar no longer deals with solemn cases for sheriff and jury trials.
Under legislation, a trial would begin within 140 days of the accused entering custody.
