AN abusive patient appeared from custody and admitted aggressive behaviour at Borders General Hospital at the weekend.

At Selkirk Sheriff Court on Monday, David Souness, 28, of Bannerfield Drive, Selkirk, pleaded guilty to threatening or abusive behaviour at the Melrose hospital’s accident and emergency department during the early hours of Sunday morning.

Procurator fiscal Graham Fraser explained an ambulance call was received about a drunk and aggressive male in the street in Selkirk.

“He had calmed down when they got there, and was taken to Borders General Hospital, where he became abusive towards a nurse. He continued to shout and swear, adding that the department was “very busy” at the time.

“His temperature was low, and he was offered a warm drink. His demeanour was fluctuating, and he threatened to throw the hot drink over a member of staff.” Mr Fraser said Souness’ breath/alcohol reading was just 17mcgs, and it was “strongly suspected he had been taking medication of an unprescribed nature.” Defence lawyer Ross Dow said: “He does have mental health difficulties.” Sentence was deferred for reports until March 30, at Selkirk Sheriff Court, and Souness was released on bail.

AN abusive patient appeared from custody and admitted aggressive behaviour at Borders General Hospital at the weekend.

At Selkirk Sheriff Court on Monday, David Souness, 28, of Bannerfield Drive, Selkirk, pleaded guilty to threatening or abusive behaviour at the Melrose hospital’s accident and emergency department during the early hours of Sunday morning.

Procurator fiscal Graham Fraser explained an ambulance call was received about a drunk and aggressive male in the street in Selkirk.

“He had calmed down when they got there, and was taken to Borders General Hospital, where he became abusive towards a nurse. He continued to shout and swear, adding that the department was “very busy” at the time.

“His temperature was low, and he was offered a warm drink. His demeanour was fluctuating, and he threatened to throw the hot drink over a member of staff.” Mr Fraser said Souness’ breath/alcohol reading was just 17mcgs, and it was “strongly suspected he had been taking medication of an unprescribed nature.” Defence lawyer Ross Dow said: “He does have mental health difficulties.” Sentence was deferred for reports until March 30, at Selkirk Sheriff Court, and Souness was released on bail.