A BORDERS man who assaulted his "vulnerable" partner in a Galashiels pub has been ordered to carry out 100 hours of unpaid work.
Stuart Duthie, 59, who gave an address in Melrose, pleaded guilty to the domestic-related assault in Wetherspoon's in High Street, Galashiels, on the afternoon of August 28.
Selkirk Sheriff Court heard that after an argument developed, Duthie put his hands around the woman's neck and squeezed her throat and later slapped her on the cheek.
He also grabbed her by the hair and pulled her towards a seat.
Depute fiscal Fiona Hamilton said a concerning factor was the lack of reaction by the woman when she was being assaulted.
A customer alerted bar staff and CCTV was checked and the police called.
Defence lawyer Mat Patrick said:"He is appalled by his behaviour. He described it himself as a shameful incident. It was stupidity on his part.
"He was clearly intoxicated and was sleep deprived."
Sheriff Peter Paterson said it was a serious incident and imposed the Community Payback Order as an alternative to custody.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here