A 36-year-old man has been accused of assaulting a disabled person who was in a wheelchair.

William McConnell of Park Avenue, Walkerburn, denies striking the man with a pole repeatedly to the head and body at Cherry Park, Tweedbank, on August 21.

He has launched a special defence of self-defence.

McConnell also denies a vandalism charge and brandishing a knife.

A trial date has been set for October 27 at Selkirk Sheriff Court.