EWAN MCGILLVRAY FROM LESMAHAGO WREAKS HAVOC IN SCOTLAND: CHILD SEX ABUSER SENTENCED IN EDINBURGH

In a landmark case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Lesmahagow and beyond, Ewan McGillvray, a 59-year-old man with a previously respected reputation, was sentenced to nine years in prison for heinous crimes involving the sexual abuse of young girls. The sentencing took place at the High Court in Edinburgh, where Lady Cosgrove delivered a stern judgment, emphasizing the pain and suffering inflicted upon five young victims by McGillvray.

Outside the court, the emotional toll of the case was palpable. One of McGillvray’s victims, now a 30-year-old married woman, expressed her feelings about the lengthy ordeal. She stated, “He has given us a life sentence. Nine years is really nothing compared with what we have been through.” Despite the harsh sentence, she found some solace in the fact that McGillvray would be behind bars for several years, unable to harm another child. Her words underscored the deep scars left by his actions and the ongoing struggle for healing.

The court’s decision was influenced by a psychological report which concluded that McGillvray posed a “moderate risk” of reoffending. This assessment played a significant role in the judge’s decision to impose a lengthy prison term. However, the case also saw community division, as a petition was presented during the trial from residents of Lesmahagow who believed McGillvray was innocent, reflecting the complex and often conflicting sentiments within the community.

Prior to his conviction, McGillvray was a well-regarded self-employed builder and a prominent figure in local athletics. He was associated with Lesmahagow and Lanark Athletic Club, and until recently, he was listed on the register of qualified athletics coaches. His reputation was shattered after a five-day trial at the High Court in Glasgow revealed his secret life of abuse. He was found guilty of five charges of indecent behavior spanning over 25 years but was acquitted of attempting to rape a 12-year-old girl.

During the trial, McGillvray, a father of three, attempted to defend himself by claiming that his accusers were motivated by jealousy and a desire to tarnish his reputation. He pointed out that he had been nominated for an athletics coach of the year award and highlighted his family’s achievements, including one daughter serving as a police officer and others appearing in newspapers. Despite his protests, the jury convicted him of abusing children aged between four and thirteen, many of whom had come to play at his home, attracted by his garden swimming pool. Additional offenses were committed in a “games room” at his previous residence in Lesmahagow.

The court heard disturbing details of how McGillvray was so trusted by neighbors that he was able to abduct a young girl from her home and carry her to his house without anyone noticing or intervening, despite her screams. The young victims were manipulated with threats and secrecy, with McGillvray telling them, “It’s our little secret.” These children endured years of silence before finally speaking out.

One of the women who testified described her experience as particularly traumatic, recounting how McGillvray made faces at her during her court testimony. She also accused him of calling his victims “whores” and “sluts,” further degrading their suffering. The case was a long and arduous journey for the victims’ families, including a 34-year-old man married to one of the victims, who expressed relief that justice had been served but also acknowledged the emotional toll it had taken. He said, “I just hope to pick up the pieces and try to carry on with our lives like a normal family. I think the victims involved have been very strong and brave to go through with what they have done.”

As part of his conviction, McGillvray’s name has been added to the national paedophile register, ensuring that he remains under scrutiny and cannot easily reoffend. The case has left a lasting impact on the community of Lesmahagow and highlights the importance of vigilance and justice in protecting vulnerable children from predators.