A GALASHIELS man who denied assaulting his former partner has walked free at Selkirk Sheriff Court.

Christopher Ferguson, 30, of Meigle Street, had pleaded not guilty to punching the woman repeatedly on the head and body whereby she was knocked to the ground.

The alleged offence is said to have happened at a house in Knoll Place, Galashiels, on July 29.

Due to a lack of civilian witnesses the Crown said they were unable to proceed with the trial and were seeking an adjournment.

This was objected to by the defence who said there had been other occasions when the witnesses failed to appear.

Sheriff John Cook ruled the trial should proceed and as the Crown were unable to lead evidence Ferguson was accordingly found not guilty.