A DALMELLINGTON man has appeared in court charged with importing banned drugs through Prestwick Airport.

Edward McConville pleaded not guilty to charges of importing two class B substances when he appeared at Ayr Sheriff Court.

The 54-year-old faces a charge of fraudulently evading prohibitions on controlled herbal cannabis and hashish under the Customs and Excise Act, as well as allegations of being concerned in the supply of the substance, on December 18, 2022.

He faces a further accusation of breaching the Customs and Excise Act, this time relating to an alleged attempt to import cannabis resin, as well as a charge of supplying the same class B substance.

Defence solicitor Tony Currie told the court his client denied all the charges against him and said Mr McConville would be lodging a special defence of incrimination.

Bail was granted and Mr McConville, of Hillcrest, Bellsbank, will return to court at a later date.

All accused persons reported in Ayrshire Weekly Press titles are considered innocent unless they are later found, or admit to, to being guilty.