Inverness court ‘legend’ bows out after 42 years’ service

A civil servant who has made more sheriff court appearances than all the most prolific offenders in the Highlands put together has made his last visit to the courtroom.

It was sheriff clerk depute Iain Dunbar's emotional final day in the job of organising and administering criminal court business at the Inverness Justice Centre after 42 years’ serving the Sheriffdom of Grampian, Highland and Islands.

Sheriff Principal Derek Pyle was there to bid farewell to the man who was described as "a court legend" by senior Sheriff Eilidh Macdonald who presided over proceedings.

She described Iain's long career which began in 1982 and led him to the Inverness Castle, which housed the criminal and civil courts in those days.

She said: "He was intending to go to university in Glasgow but his father persuaded him to get a job with the civil service."

The sheriff added that Iain then came to Inverness "thinking it would be a temporary thing but the magnetism of the Highlands was too much and he stayed - 42 years is a serious shift”.

"He was always extremely knowledgeable and organised and was often referred to as Lord Dunbar. He is one of a kind," said Sheriff Macdonald.

It was a surprise to Iain who was called to court four unsuspecting that colleagues and sheriffs had gathered to pay tribute to him and handover gifts to demonstrate their affection for their now-retired colleague.

Fighting back the tears, Iain told them: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the court service, if I hadn't I wouldn't have stayed this long. I will miss everyone here - the camaraderie, the fun, laughter and the jokes."

Iain revealed that he had plans to go on a cruise with his partner Ali as she and "Lord Dunbar's" last cruise was interrupted by Covid.

And no doubt, several trips to see his beloved Rangers at Ibrox are on the agenda.