A 43-YEAR-OLD man was abusive to early morning dog walkers on three occasions, Jedburgh Sheriff Court has been told.

Nathan Smith, of Duns, pleaded guilty to three charges of behaving in a threatening or abusive manner in April and May last year.

Depute fiscal Claire Green said the three women were confronted by Smith on their morning walks and he began shouting and swearing at them.

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They said they did not know who he was and were shaken by his behaviour.

Defence lawyer Mat Patrick said his client had a fear of dogs.

Sheriff Kenneth Maciver imposed a two-year Community Pay Back order with supervision and also ordered him to carry out 100 hours unpaid work.