Police support for speeding bike

A motorcyclist who pleaded guilty to careless driving received a letter of support from a police officer, Inverness Sheriff Court has heard.

David McCafferty, 32, of Dulnain Bridge, had been accused of driving dangerously by overtaking a line of vehicles at an average speed of 117mph.

But the Crown accepted his guilty plea to the reduced charge.

A letter from a policewoman who helped McCafferty run a club for young bike enthusiasts was given to the sheriff.

The court heard the motorcyclist had helped organise a trip for youngsters to Durham Mini-Moto Club last year with the local police, including PC Helen Taylor.

A police car was in the line of traffic McCafferty overtook on a bend of the A95 at Craggan, near Grantown-on-Spey, on 6 June last year.

His solicitor Craig Wood said McCafferty was the chairman of committee that was trying to set up a club for young motorcycle and go-kart enthusiasts.

Mr Wood handed Sheriff Margaret Neilson the letter of support from PC Taylor.

McCafferty was fined £400 and had six penalty points put on his licence.