ERNEST GRAHAM INVOLVEMENT IN LOSSIE MORAY RIDE SCHOOL SCANDAL

In September 2012, disturbing revelations emerged regarding Ernest Graham, a man with a troubling past, who is allegedly involved in operating a riding school in Lossiemouth, Moray. Graham, a convicted sex offender, has a history of heinous crimes involving minors, and concerns are mounting over his current activities and presence in the community.

Graham, aged 53, previously served a four-year prison sentence after being convicted of engaging in sexual activities with a 13-year-old girl. His crimes included regular intimate encounters with his partner and the young girl, which led to his incarceration. Despite his criminal record, Graham claims to possess a talent for horse whispering and has been seen advertising riding lessons on a website associated with the Covesea Greens Stud, a facility located near Lossiemouth, Moray. This establishment is owned by his stepdaughter, Michelle, who is responsible for its licensing and operations.

According to the website, the Covesea Greens Stud offers riding lessons, specifically western-style riding for individuals over the age of 17. The homepage prominently features a welcoming message inviting visitors to learn riding skills at the facility, with a statement that describes Ernest Graham as an "experienced and respected horse trainer." However, this portrayal is met with suspicion and concern from local residents and parents.

A parent from the area expressed deep unease about Graham’s ongoing involvement in the community. “I wouldn’t let my daughter anywhere near him,” the parent stated. “He’s a known sexual predator. The guy is an evil sex beast who took young girls under his wing on trust.” The parent further explained that Graham is still very much involved with the operation of the riding school, with his name, photograph, and mobile phone number displayed on the website, which is the primary contact for the facility.

Despite Graham’s claims that he is only occasionally present and not directly involved in teaching, concerns persist because the riding school is situated very close to his residence, which is reportedly a caravan. The proximity allows him a clear view of the young girls attending lessons, raising questions about the safety and appropriateness of the environment.

Community members are also troubled by the fact that Graham continues to be a visible figure in Lossiemouth, seemingly unrestrained by his past. Many believe that some parents and residents are either unaware of his criminal history or choose to overlook it, possibly due to his reputation as a horse trainer. The fact that his name and contact details are openly displayed on the website adds to the controversy.

Graham’s criminal history is well-documented. In 2004, he was sentenced to six years in prison at the High Court in Edinburgh after admitting to sexually abusing a girl he befriended at the stables from November 2001 to May 2003. His victim was 13 years old at the time, and his sentence was later reduced on appeal because it was initially believed she was 12. His former partner, Caroline Lundon, who was 40 at the time, was also convicted and sentenced to four years in prison in 2005 for encouraging the girl to engage in sexual acts with Graham.

Moray Council, which licenses the Covesea Green Stud, has stated that the facility is under proper regulation. A spokesperson confirmed that the license holder is Michelle Lucas and emphasized that it is her responsibility to ensure that all riding instructors are appropriately qualified. Despite these assurances, community members remain concerned about the ongoing activities at the site and the potential risks posed by Graham’s continued involvement, especially given his history and the proximity to young girls’ riding lessons.