Police launch finance probe at venerable Scots beef brand

Police confirmed that they are carrying out an investigation into “historic” conduct at the Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society, which has a current membership of around 2,500 people across the UK, Ireland and Europe, and whose patron is HRH Prince Charles.

A police spokesman last night said: “We have received a report in relation to alleged financial irregularities at the Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society.

“Inquiries are at an early stage and are ongoing.”

The society recently appointed Barrie Turner as chief executive, replacing Johnny Mackey following his resignation in February 2017.

Mr Turner, who is based at the society’s headquarters in Perth, said last night: “We are working with the police and doing everything we can to bring this to a conclusion.

“We are supplying the police with any information they have requested.

“It’s something that I have inherited and the allegations go a wee while back. I really can’t say any more than that at this time.”

The allegations were also confirmed by Aberdeenshire based society president Angela MacGregor, who added: “The allegations are all historic.”

The society lost many senior figures last year including Mr Mackey and communications manager Chrissie Long, along with three other board members.

John Tait, of Rostellan, County Cork, Andrew Elliot, of Blackhaugh, Galashiels, and Giles Lane, of the Old Farmhouse, Lockerbie, all resigned.