Ex-policeman accused of singing sectarian songs

A FORMER policeman has gone on trial accused of singing sectarian songs at Ibrox stadium while he was still a serving officer.

Edinburgh man Jamie Hetherington - who has since resigned from the force - is alleged to have shouted sectarian abuse during a sing-song at the Rangers v Aberdeen match in April last year. Glasgow Sheriff Court heard that the 23-year-old was detained by officers on duty at the stadium.

Hetherington, of Mitchell Street, Edinburgh, denies committing a sectarian breach of the peace at the stadium on April 7, last year.

The court heard from security steward Sarah Horton, who claimed she saw Hetherington singing the offending song and pointing at Aberdeen fans during the match. Hetherington told the court he believed it was a case of mistaken identity. He added he was a probationary officer at the time of the alleged offence with just 18 months' service and was asked to resign.

The case will continue in October.