Podcast #10: Harry Burnett, Last Man Hanged in Scotland

The History Quine

This week, Dr Fiona-Jane Brown looks at the sensational and controversial murder case of Thomas Guyan, shot dead at point blank range by his wife's lover, Harry Burnett. The trial would lead to Harry's execution on the 15th of August 1963. Medical evidence at the time suggesting Harry had neurological issues which caused his "psychopathic personality" was rejected by trial judge, Lord Wheatley. Today it would appear Harry Burnett would have been treated very differently, and perhaps have still been alive. Public support was on his side at the time, and Margaret Guyan, Tommy's unfaithful wife was dubbed a "femme fatale" with poor morals who lead 21-year-old Harry astray.