Man appears at Wick Sheriff Court after 'threatening to set fire to house' in Castletown

A man has appeared in court after allegedly threatening to set fire to house and wielding an axe in the Highlands.

The streets surrounding Coronation Place in Castletown were sealed off from 12.25pm on Monday after police received reports of concern for a person.

The area remained cordoned off until around 5.45pm on Tuesday while specialist negotiators attended the scene.

A 49-year-old was later charged in connection with the incident.

On Wednesday, Anthony Woodburn appeared at Wick Sheriff Court charged with threatening and abusive behaviour.

The court heard that Woodburn adopted an aggressive attitude towards police officers as well as threatening to self-harm while in possession of an axe.

Woodburn was also accused of threatening to set fire to a house, refusing to leave and repeatedly refusing to allow officers entry.

The charge also alleged that Woodburn uttered threats of violence towards officers whereby a siege incident was declared and public officers were caused to attend.

Woodburn made no plea during his appearance and was remanded in custody.

Woodburn’s solicitor, Kevin Hughes, said that the Sheriff ordered a psychiatric report for Woodburn.

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