May 16 2000 / PA News / Rachel Blackburn
Six environmental protesters were, according to this story, today cleared of
obstructing police during a demonstration at a test site for genetically
modified crops.
The story says that the six had faced trial on charges of vandalism and
obstruction after allegedly destroying crops at Boghall Farm near Dalkeith,
Midlothian, last March at a test site for the Scottish Agricultural College.
At Edinburgh Sheriff Court, Sheriff Elizabeth Jarvie was cited as finding
Catherine Johnson, 32, a librarian from Fife, and Stokely Webster, 29, a
researcher from London, not guilty of obstructing police.
The four others, Mark Ballard, 28, a graphic designer from Stockbridge,
Edinburgh, Matthew Herbert, 29, a researcher from St Andrews, Alan Tolmie,
33, a professional busker from Edinburgh and James MacKenzie, 27, a press
officer from Stockbridge, were also found not guilty of the same charge.
However, the story adds, they must return to court in August over the charge
of vandalism.
