Solicitor advocate Stephen Biggam, defending, said MacPherson would “steadily lose his eyesight” due to macular degeneration.
He said: “The court might take the view that will eliminate or significantly mitigate any risk going forward.
“His wife has served divorce papers on him in custody.
“It’s been made plain to him that his wife, his son, and 99% of people in general, want nothing more to do with him.”
MacPherson was a prominent figure in The Royal Scottish Country Dance Society and in 2003 he was photographed with Queen Elizabeth II – its patron – at Holyrood Palace.
A spokesperson for the society said: “We are shocked and appalled by the offences committed by Alan MacPherson and the details which have emerged through these court proceedings.
“The society takes the safeguarding and wellbeing of everyone involved in its activities extremely seriously and has clear safeguarding policies and procedures in place.”
He said the society was not aware of any concerns being raised previously in relation to MacPherson.
“However, given his longstanding involvement in Scottish country dancing, the organisation will now undertake a full and thorough review of his involvement with the society.
“As well as this investigation into Mr MacPherson, the board will also review all of our existing policies.”
He said anyone with concerns relating to MacPherson or his involvement in the society should contact them.
“Any concerns raised will be treated seriously and sensitively and, where appropriate, referred to the relevant authorities,” he added.
