Loch Ness Monster May Have Company, Scottish Court Rules

A Scottish court refused Friday to ban fish farming in Loch Ness after the local tourist board claimed the farming would harm the image of the legendary monster which supposedly lives in the loch.

The tourist board contended that Loch Ness and its mysterious creature were a unique selling point for tourism and fish farming would reduce the monster’s credibility.

The court said it was not satisfied there were sufficient grounds for interfering with the Highland Regional Council’s decision to give planning permission for fish farming.

For many years people have reported seeing a large, long-necked animal with flippers swimming in the loch.

Scientists involved in the biggest search ever for the beast last October reported making contact with something large below the surface but never identified what it was.