Black Isle fraudster from Fortrose refused to fork out for food in eateries and guest houses and on one occasion offered dandelions in payment

A WOMAN who appeared from custody on a variety of fraud, shoplifting and public disorder charges offered to pay a bill for food and drinks in dandelions, Inverness Sheriff Court has heard.

Eilidh Mackay (44) of Seaforth Drive, Fortrose, admitted obtaining board and lodgings and food and drink, running up a bill in one guest house of more than £240 without paying or intending to pay.

Solicitor John MacColl told Sheriff Margaret Neilson: “It’s fair to say the conduct she displayed was somewhat bizarre. In one case she attended at the venue, ordered food and drinks and didn’t appear particularly inebriated and said she couldn’t pay and simply offered to pay in dandelions.”

He said there were other cases where she made no attempt to disguise her actions.

“She ate and drank, said she couldn’t pay and didn’t attempt to run away,” Mr MacColl said.

Sheriff Neilson ordered reports before sentencing, but said the number of offences and the fact she was on bail at the time of some meant she would be remanded in custody.

The case was continued to December 10.

Mackay admitted stealing alcohol and food from Morrisons in Millburn Road, Inverness, on April 30; stealing footwear and toiletries from Home Bargains in Rose Street, Inverness on July 1; groceries from Marks and Spencer and a BP garage in Inverness on July 7 and behaving in a disorderly manner and threatening and abusive behaviour at the Co-op store in High Street, Fortrose, on July 4.

She also admitted between October 7 and 13 to obtaining board and lodgings and food and drink from the Mercure Hotel in Church Street, MacGregor’s Bar in Academy Street, Glencairn Guest House in Ardross Street and Café One in Castle Street – all Inverness. At the Mercure Hotel on October 7, Mackay admitted threatening and abusive behaviour and kicking a door.