A ST BOSWELLS man has admitted stalking his former partner by repeatedly sending her offensive text messages and behaving in an aggressive manner towards her.

Alan Cairney pleaded guilty to the offence which ran over a six week period when they fell out during an overnight stay at the Black Barony Hotel in Eddleston.

Selkirk Sheriff Court was told that between February 13 and March 30 there were 753 messages sent between Cairney and the woman - with many from her urging him not to contact her anymore.

Procurator fiscal Graham Fraser said many were threatening and aggressive towards her.

Defence lawyer Mat Patrick said the vast majority of the messages were supportive of her and an attempt to rekindle their relationship.

But he admitted some "had crossed the line" and were "wholly unacceptable".

Sheriff Peter Paterson deferred sentence for background reports establishing 31-year-old Cairney's suitability to attend the Caledonian Men's Programme.

Cairney of Springfield Terrace will be sentenced on February 27.