A man who fled a luxury Perthshire hotel after racking up a £750 bill on a romantic Valentine’s Day break has still not coughed up, despite a court order to pay what he owes.
Robert Grant took his partner to Knock Castle Hotel, Crieff, in February last year but left early, without paying his bill.
In November, at Perth Sheriff Court, the 30-year-old was ordered to pay £749.25 to hotel owner Jason Henderson within 28 days, and fined a further £550.
However, Mr Henderson has revealed that Grant is yet to pay him a penny more than two months on, and has vowed to continue his battle for payment.
He said: “He pleaded guilty at the intermediate diet and had 28 days to pay compensation, which fell on Christmas Eve. The court says they have ways of enforcing it, but where does that leave me?
“The guy was supposed to pay it in February when he was at the hotel. He’s not contacted the court he has no intention of paying it.
“I’m tired, annoyed and frustrated why should I have to chase around after the minority of people?
“I’m definitely not giving up hope of getting the money back. There was talk of civil claims, which I think I will do.”
At court in November, Grant claimed he had given cash to a friend, believing he had paid upfront for the break but was then unable to go.
He said he had stormed out of the hotel following an argument with girlfriend Mandy Paterson.
Grant pleaded guilty to obtaining board and lodging to the value of £749.25 without paying or intending to pay between February 13 and 16 last year. Paterson’s not guilty plea was accepted by the Crown.
During their stay, Grant had racked up a bill for a three-night stay, Champagne, flowers and two meals at the rooftop restaurant.
After discovering that Grant had left without paying, Mr Henderson posted CCTV images of the couple on social media sites in a bid to track them down.
The Judicial Office for Scotland declined to comment.