Politics student, 18, murdered boyfriend, 18, by driving over him at farm, court hears

• Grace Ross, 18, allegedly murdered Joshua Kerr, 18, near Leslie, Fife, on Friday
• Alleged incident took place at at Little Balquhomrie Farm, where Mr Kerr worked
• She is said to have driven a car into him before driving over his head and body

A university student, 18, has appeared in court charged with murdering her boyfriend by driving over his head at a farm.

Grace Ross allegedly murdered Joshua Kerr, also 18,  at Little Balquhomrie Farm - where Mr Kerr worked - near Leslie, Fife, on Friday morning. 

She 'drove a motor vehicle in the direction of Joshua Kerr, causing the vehicle to strike him, whereby he fell to the ground and the vehicle drove over his head and body', the charge read.

Ross and Mr Kerr had lived together for two years at an address in Glenrothes.

Ross, represented by solicitor Brian Black, appeared today at Falkirk Sheriff Court facing a murder charge on petition but made no plea.

A petition is the first draft of charges against the defendant in a serious case.  

Ross was formerly at the University of Abertay.

She was accepted to start a new course as a student of politics and international relations at the University of Dundee in September.

Prosecutor Katie Cunningham did not seek a remand in custody.

Sheriff Alastair Brown committed Ross for further examination and released her on bail. She will appear in court again at a date to be confirmed.

After the incident, Mr Kerr's heartbroken parents Angela Kerr and Jamie Simpson said: 'His mum, dad, little brother and anyone that ever knew Josh will never forget him.

'He was the perfect person and we will forever love him.'

Mr Kerr's grandmother Debbie Kerr thanked those friends who had paid tribute and said they were planning a memorial celebration for the teenager.

She added: 'He was a kind, loving grandson and person.'

Scores of tributes for Mr Kerr, a talented pool player, were posted on a Facebook page set up in his memory.

Friend Gavin Taylor said: 'Devastated to hear the news about wee Josh Kerr, one of the nicest young guys I have ever spoke to.'

A spokesman for Raith Rovers Football Club, where Mr Kerr was a season ticket holder, said everyone was devastated to hear about the tragedy.

In a statement the club said: 'The thoughts of everyone at RRFC are with the family at this sad time.

'Always willing to help others, Josh, alongside his mum Angela, also helped out in hospitality at Raith Rovers during the season just ended.'

Detective Inspector John Easton of Police Scotland's Major Investigation Team said at the weekend: 'This was an isolated incident and there is no risk to the wider community. 

'We are keen to talk to anyone who may be able to help with our investigation.'