accused in dock

Hamilton man, 25, in court over alleged rape of teenage girl near Bothwell Castle

A MAN has appeared in court in connection with the alleged rape of a teenage girl near Bothwell Castle in Lanarkshire.

Craig Watson, 25, is alleged to have attacked the girl in woodlands near the beauty spot.

He made no plea during a private hearing at Hamilton Sheriff Court today.

Watson, of Hamilton, Lanarkshire, was given bail and is expected to make a further court appearance at a later date.

Investigating officers studied CCTV footage from the area and appealed for anyone with information to come forward.

The incident shocked the local community who had been using the castle area for walking and exercise during lockdown.

The area is also popular with dog walkers and joggers.

Additional police patrols had been put in place following the alleged incident of May 20.