In 2009, Mrs Lorimer pled guilty at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court to one charge of embezzlement from a post office. The court imposed a community service order requiring 300 hours of unpaid work and a compensation order for £15,000.

In 2022, the applicant applied to the commission, seeking a review of Mrs Lorimer’s conviction.

The commission has referred Mrs Lorimer’s conviction to the High Court of Justiciary as it concluded that she pled guilty in circumstances that were, or could be said to be, clearly prejudicial to her.

The commission also concluded that ‘Horizon’ evidence was essential to the proof of the accounting shortfall that led to the charge being brought against Mrs Lorimer and that the prosecution was oppressive because the process was an affront to justice.

In accordance with the commission’s statutory obligations, a statement of reasons for its decision has been sent to the applicant, the High Court, the Lord Advocate and Crown Office. The commission has no power under its founding statute to make copies of its statements of reasons available to the public.

Michael Walker, the commission’s chief executive, said: “The SCCRC is the body which reviews potential miscarriages of justice in Scotland. Subpostmasters are still coming forward to tell us that they have suffered a miscarriage of justice.

“We encourage anyone who hasn’t yet done so to get in touch. If the person affected has died, we will accept applications from next-of-kin. Our service is free and easy to use. You don’t need a solicitor.

“If you believe that you or a close family member might have suffered a miscarriage of justice as a result of Horizon, our staff would be pleased to talk you through the application process.”