'Scope bought by former SNP chief executive more likely to have been for astronomy than for ornithology

                                                           

The scope- too bulky for birders

IT seems more likely that the telescope bought by former Scottish National Party chief executive Peter Murrell was for the purpose of  gazing at planets and stars than at birds and wildlife.

It has emerged that the device of his choice was a x81 magnification Celestron NexStar 8SE.

According to media reports he paid £1,199  - but it was the party's money not his own.

The manufacturer says of the 'scope: "It is fully computerised and will locate and track objects as they appear to move across the night sky. 

"After a short set-up procedure, the Sky Tour function will recommend the best objects for you to view from your exact location and time. 

"The computer and mount are powered by 8 x AA batteries (not included)."

At 14.5 kg, the product, which carries a two-year guarantee,  is probably too heavy to carry for long distances, so it would not be a choice for birders.

Mr Murrell, who was this week convicted of embezzling SNP funds, also forked out £154.97 on three bird feeders from Kent-based Jacobi Jayne so that he and former wife Nicola Sturgeon could relax by watching garden birds.                                        

A Jacobi Jayne bird feeder with a familiar visitor