Ayr Advertiser | News | Vile thief lies making me sick

Saturday, 5th July, 2008

Published: Tuesday, 13th May, 2008 10:30

Vile thief lies making me sick

By Roisin McGroarty

Comments (0)

Print Article

Image related to story, see caption or article text

UPSET: Allison Cairns and union chief Jim Winter

A COUNCIL employee has slammed vicious rumours linking her with a theft.

South Ayrshire Council trade union convenor Allison Cairns was shocked to read that a woman bearing her name had appeared in court accused of stealing a laptop.

The woman had appeared at Ayr Sheriff Court last month, pleading guilty to stealing the computer in Alison Street on February 13.

Allison, 40, - who is currently on leave from work due to stress - was then surprised to learn that rumours had started that she was off work due to stealing.

Speaking exclusively to us, she explained: “It’s really embarrassing and people think it is me. I think the rumours are just mischief making.

“The only reason I’m saying anything about it is I don’t want it to jeopardise my career and reputation.

“I’m off with stress and it’s really setting me back by weeks.

“People might think I was off my work because I nicked it but it’s absolutely not the case. Luckily my boss has been great, he was the one who said I had to do something to clear my name.”

The other Alison Cairns is due back in court this month for sentencing over the stolen item after Sheriff Colin Miller called for background reports.

Allison, who lives in Newton Green, continued: “Having people think it is me is horrible and I’m just worried now that people will take the mick out of my son Grant, 14.

“I don’t want it to affect my job and have people think it is me - I didn’t nick the laptop.”

Council chiefs have vowed to back Allison and have also rubbished the rumours.

A spokesman said: “Allison Cairns is a valued and long serving employee with South Ayrshire Council and we confirm she is not the accused person.”

Comments