THE dentist at the centre of the HIV scare in Cumnock and Drongan could find himself in court 'within months' according to the lawyer representing patients.

Patrick McGuire from Thompsons Solicitors in Glasgow represents more than 500 patients taking action against dentist Alan Morrison.

Morrison is currently the subject of a General Dentist Council hearing over allegations that he failed to maintain proper hygiene standards and that he falsified paperwork to NHS Ayrshire and Arran auditors at his practices in Cumnock and Drongan.

Now the crack lawyer, who has been involved in various high profile legal cases, including the baby ashes scandal reckons that his clients could take Morrison to court sooner rather than later.

Mr McGuire said: "We have in excess of 500 clients who are taking legal action against Mr Morrison.

"Negotiations have been tough. We are, however, clear on the strength of the cases.

"I'd hope they will see sense but I think that this could go to court and it could be within months rather than years."

Morrison is currently part of the hearing in London.

Mr McGuire added: "The reality is that the evidence we have is strong enough in any event."

"It's shock horror but not totally surprising."

Mr McGuire could not confirm if any of his clients are one of the four who tested positive for Hepatitis C due to client confidentiality.

In March 2014 the Chronicle revealed how patients were considering taking legal action against Morrison.

NHS Ayrshire and Arran had to employ more staff to set up a special unit at Cumnock’s Community Hospital to deal with precautionary tests patients were forced to take to determine if they had contracted an infection.

At the hearing this week it was revealed how Morrison had to cancel his golf membership due to money worries when he was previously struck off.

The hearing continues.