Police issue drone warning after Wallace Monument damaged

Police have issued a warning to drone pilots after the Wallace Monument was damaged.

A window was damaged at the Stirling landmark. Picture: Contributed

A remote aircraft crashed into the monument in Causewayhead, Stirling, at around 4.30pm on Saturday, damaging a window.

No one was injured and inquiries are currently ongoing to trace the operator of the drone, who was within the grounds of the monument at the time.

Police have highlighted existing legislation around the use of drones and the potential risks if they are flown in and around crowded or built-up areas.

Inspector Cheryle Cowan said: “While the use of drones is becoming more popular for members of the public when filming and photographing scenic areas or places of interest, it is essential that they are utilised responsibly so as not to cause alarm or injury to other members of the public.

“I would advise that drone operators familiarise themselves with all the appropriate legislation so as to ensure they adhere to existing aviation laws and regulations, and be aware of the areas in our community where drone activity may pose a particular sensitivity.”

Unlicensed operators must not fly drones within 150m of a built-up area or within 50m of a building or people.

Those with licences from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) can fly devices weighing up to 7kg in built-up areas, with restrictions.