Gordon Finlayson changes plea and admits being concerned in the supply of cocaine

A FORMER Highland League footballer will be sentenced on a drug dealing charge on September 14 after changing his plea to guilty during his jury trial at Inverness.

Gordon Finlayson, a 27 year old midfielder turned out for a number of clubs including Ross County, Elgin City, Brora Rangers and Forres Mechanics. He also won the 2019 North Caledonian League player of the year award while playing for his home team of Alness United.

Finlayson of Shillinghill had denied being concerned in the supply of cocaine.

But after two witnesses gave evidence, he admitted the offence which was slightly amended.

Fiscal depute Robert Weir told the court that 38-year-old Gemma Lennox who lived nearby, was pruning bushes in a community garden in Shillinghill when she discovered a bag of white powder.

"She showed it to her partner and then handed it over to police. Later that day, Finlayson approached her three times with regards to losing something in the bush.

"He first claimed he had lost a ball in the bush and the second and third time he claimed his friend had lost a very important bag, in a more distressed state.

"She then left and observed Finlayson and his brother searching the bush. Later that day, Finlayson attempted to add her via Facebook which she declined and his brother attempted to call her via Facebook messenger."

Mr Weir told Sheriff Margaret Neilson that the 121.94 grams of cocaine had a wholesale value of £5000. But that it had a maximum street value if sold in 1 gram deals of £12,100.

Defence solicitor Graham Mann reserved his comments on behalf of first offender Finlayson until a background report had been prepared.

Finlayson's bail was continued.