Inverness social work probe into paedophile’s possible contacts

SOCIAL workers have been carrying out their own independent investigation into Inverness paedophile Alan Wilson, The Inverness Courier has learned.

It comes less than a week after the businessman, former scout group chairman and children’s charity worker was jailed for four years for sexually abusing three young boys.

Highland Council confirmed its social work department had been carrying out checks on 65-year-old Wilson, of Holm Burn Place.

It is understood the checks began after Wilson pleaded guilty.

The department has been looking to see whether Wilson, who was the chairman of Lochardil Scout Group and secretary of the Inverness-Nairn Link of the Chernobyl Children Lifeline charity which brings sick youngsters from Belarus for holidays in the Highlands, may have come into contact with any other local organisations involving children.

So far the investigation has not linked Wilson to any other local groups but anyone concerned is encouraged to make contact with the authority.

“There have been checks made and we are not aware of Alan Wilson having contact with any other organisations,” said a council spokeswoman.

“We continue to be alert to the possibility and would welcome any further information or contact from groups if they have any concerns.”

The prudent action has been welcomed by city councillors.

“When anything like this happens it is only right that it should be looked into, even if it is only for people’s reassurance,” said Inverness councillor Bet McAllister, a member of the authority’s social work committee.

“It is great they are doing it if there is the slightest doubt he may have been involved in any social work activities.”

She worries, however, that cases like Wilson could deter adults, especially men, from getting involved with voluntary groups and community organisations, dealing with children.

“It’s a shame in many ways,” said the central ward member.

“There is always that fear that accusations would be made. There is a big backlash now and organisations do suffer.”

Councillor Jim Crawford (Inverness South), who was once introduced to Wilson at a civic dinner hosted by the council, also believed it was right for the council to carry out its own checks.

“It is such a horrible subject,” he said. “Anything that cuts down on it is worth doing.”

After his release from prison Wilson will be monitored in the community for two years. He will also be placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register.

His crimes only came to light last February when a nine-year-old boy told police he had been abused.

Wilson admitted five charges of assault against three young boys over a period between December 1989 and February 2008.