Ayrshire gran takes civil action against man who assaulted baby

The grandmother of a baby girl who was assaulted by a Crosshouse man is taking civil action against him, to try and secure money for her future care needs.

Mark Tannahill left the newborn with a broken rib and fractured skull in a series of brutal attacks – just weeks after the child had lost her mother to cancer.

Last month the 38-year-old was found guilty of assault and threatening and abusive behaviour following a week long trial at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court.

Bid for cash for child's future care needs

Now the child’s grandmother, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, wants to make sure Tannahill pays up for the child’s future care needs, to aid her recovery and improve her quality of life, due to the life-changing nature of the injuries she sustained.

The child’s grandmother said: “Our daughter passing away and the reality of me not knowing how long I have left means we need to give real consideration to my grandchild’s future care needs.

“My grand-daughter has been robbed of her mother and now she has been robbed of her own future.

“A civil action is the only route open to us to ensure her ongoing care needs are met.

“All I can do is stay strong for her and do things that help improve her recovery and enhance her quality of life.”

Tannahill is due to be sentenced on Friday

Tannahill has now had his assets frozen ahead of the criminal sentencing later this week.

Richard Pitts, Associate at Digby Brown Solicitors, is helping the family with the legal action.

He added: “What happened to this child was truly horrific – there was simply no excuse for abusing a helpless infant in this way.

“The legal action is in a very early stage so it would be inappropriate to speculate or comment further but we remain committed to assisting the family and ensuring this child has a future that is as positive as possible.”

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