True extent of Blackburn’s evil revealed in letter

The sickening letter sent by Stewart Blackburn

By Cara Sulieman & Paul Thornton

A LETTER sent to the parents of tragic Jessica McCagh by fire-ball killer Stewart Blackburn after her murder shows his obsession with death, a handwriting expert has revealed.

Sick Blackburn, 18, penned a poison note from his cell at HMP Perth before being convicted of dousing pretty Jessica in petrol and setting her on fire.

Now top handwriting expert Barbara Weaver has revealed that his child-like writing shows it was just a matter of time before the youth lashed out.

Barabara, from from the Cambridge School of Graphology, said his letter proved he was prone to lash out and likely to have fantasies about the death and a desire to punish.

Conan Doyle back on fantasy writing agenda

By Oliver Farrimond

LITERARY legend Arthur Conan Doyle is set to top the artistic agenda later this month.

One of the author’s finest works – The Lost World – is to be the focus of a discussion between leading fantasy and science-fiction writers.

Adam Roberts and China Mèiville will appear at Napier University in Edinburgh to weigh up the legacy of the Victorian author.

Napier University professor Dr Linda Dryden said: “”China has a massive following – the pair will no doubt be a huge draw for fans of fantasy and science fiction.

“The event will give people the opportunity to hear contemporary creative writers of fantasy-fiction talking about one of Edinburgh’s most famous authors, and how he helped to transform the genre.”

The Lost World, published in 1912, tells of the discovery of a prehistoric world in South America where dinosaurs and apes have been left untouched by human civilisation.

The discussion is just one of a number of events to pay homage to Charles Darwin, and his contribution to the theory of evolution, on the bicentenary of his birth.

Dr Dryden added: “I am hopeful that, as well as offering an un-missable opportunity for fans, we will also be helping to bring literature to a new audience.”

The ‘Fictional Worlds’ Conan Doyle discussion will be chaired by Scotland on Sunday’s literary editor Stuart Kelly, and takes place on February 28 at St Augustine’s Church.