Stagecoach tycoon's son assaulted partygoer after taunts

Nov 20 2009 by Les Stewart, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

THE teenage son of multi-millionaire bus tycoon Brian Souter repeatedly punched another youth in a violent, drink-fuelled attack after a party.

Perth Sheriff Court was told that the incident was sparked after obscenities were shouted at 18-year-old Scott Brian Souter – and they “made fun” of his father.

As the partygoers, who included Philip Johnston, left, they shouted “w***er” at the accused.

They left in a car but Souter and one of his friends pursued it, flashed their lights and got the other vehicle to stop.

Souter then got out, went over and punched Mr Johnston several times on the face and head, through the open window.

The complainer then fled the scene to avoid further trouble.

The assault cost Souter, formerly of Glasgow Road, Perth, a £200 fine on Wednesday.

He was also ordered to pay his victim £400 in compensation. He was allowed 28 days to pay the penalties from his savings.

Souter, now of Meadow Place Road, Edinburgh, previously admitted by letter that he carried out the assault on the A912 Glenfarg-Bridge of Earn road, on August 8.

He said at that time: “This is not something I would usually do – or have ever done – for that matter.

“I did have a lot to drink that night and I believe that is the only reason this incident happened.”

Depute fiscal John Malpass said that the accused admitted remonstrating with the complainer and punching him – “possibly three times”.

Mr Johnston didn’t seek medical attention but suffered from a swollen lip, cheekbone and bruised eye.

QC Paul McBride described the incident on Wednesday as “an act of stupidity” carried out by a young man under the influence of alcohol and against a background of abuse being directed at him.

He had now moved to Edinburgh and was doing an HND course in Sports Sciences at college.

He was also involved in voluntary work in the community, carrying out football coaching with under-privileged youngsters.

In addition, the accused had attended several sessions with a clinical psychologist to deal with anger management and any issues relating to the abuse of alcohol.

The QC added that Souter’s family had spoken to him “in the strongest possible terms”, warning him of his future behaviour.

He described Souter as “chastened” and urged Sheriff Michael Fletcher to consider an admonition.

But the sheriff said that wasn’t an “appropriate” course of action to take, bearing in mind the background to the incident and the injuries sustained.