WISHART ON ETAPE FALLOUT.

WISHART ON ETAPE FALLOUT.

Perth and North Perthshire MP, Mr Pete Wishart, has today (Tuesday) commented on the arrest of a 62-year-old man from the Rannoch area in connection with the sabotage of a cycle race in Highland Perthshire.

Mr Wishart said:

“It is reassuring to hear that charges are to be brought against an individual in connection with the disruption of Etape Caledonia. I hope that this can help bring closure to this regrettable incident and set foundations for a successful event next year.

“I have been approached by a number of people who were affected by the incident and who were distressed and surprised at the attempt to sabotage the race.

“I think it is important that those affected receive an apology and are reassured that this individual’s acts are condemned by the overwhelming majority of people of Highland Perthshire.

"Highland Perthshire's reputation as a first class tourist destination has to be maintained and we cannot let this juvenile act get in the way of that. Etape Caledonia brings a massive economic boost to the area and we want these visitors to come back.

"I believe that the ongoing campaign to have this race stopped has not served the people of Highland Perthshire well and hope that this did not provide a pre-text for this individuals appalling act.

"We have to be accommodating to tourists and give them a proper Highland Perthshire welcome.”