'Mindless vandalism' at Rosemarkie beauty spot slammed by Black Isle MSP
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VANDALISM at a Black Isle beauty spot has been slammed by the local MSP and prompted appeals for anyone with information to contact the police.
An area next to Rosemarkie Beach Cafe was subject to "mindless vandalism" last night with bins overturned, a carefully laid grip mat allowing for wheelchair access ripped up out and glass bottles smashed.
Reports suggests that attempts were made to set a metal beer keg allegedly removed from a nearby hotel alight on a makeshift bonfire.
The area's MP Kate Forbes today voiced her “deep disappointment” over the incident, which has been reported to police.
After photos emerged on social media today, representatives from the Rosemarkie Beach Café and Fortrose and Rosemarkie Community Council both condemned the “destructive vandalism”.
Miss Forbes said: “Rosemarkie beach is one of the most beautiful parts of my constituency, and in normal circumstances would attract visitors from all over the Highlands and beyond on a sunny day.
“As you can walk all the way along the beach to Chanonry Point, understandably it’s also been very popular locally with those undertaking exercise or walking their dogs during lockdown.
“Against this backdrop – and particularly as we are still observing the original lockdown measures – I am deeply disappointed to see such destruction and I know it’s been a cause of great sadness to the local community too.
“I hope the damage to the beach café is minimal, and that everything can be repaired. The Black Isle community is always so good at rallying round.
“During the summer, though people try their best, there can occasionally be a stray bit of litter left behind from picnics and bbqs on the beach.
“What took place at Rosemarkie on Tuesday evening is mindless vandalism and I hope those responsible will be found and held accountable for their actions.”
Fortrose and Rosemarkie Community Council posted: "Leaving masses of broken glass on the beach where people will walk, breaking railings on Rosemarkie High Path, stealing beer kegs from the Plough and lighting fires under them to see if they will explode, overturning a table at the Beach Cafe and ripping out the grass mat underneath is not celebration, it is simply destructive vandalism.
"If anyone knows who has been doing this can they please either let us know or contact the police on 101, This behaviour is not acceptable. The police are aware if the incidents and are treating them seriously."
The incident has sparked outrage locally with some questioning gatherings of this nature during lockdown.
