A 33-YEAR-OLD MAN has denied threatening to set fire to a public house in Galashiels and petrol bomb it.

Michael Hartley is also alleged to have behaved in a threatening or abusive manner towards staff at the Salmon Inn.

It is also claimed he was shouting and swearing and refused to leave the premises when asked to do so.

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The incident is alleged to have taken place on August 26.

Hartley, who gave an address in Hawick, is also charged with throwing and kicking garden tables and chairs at the same venue.

He pleaded not guilty to charges of threatening or abusive behaviour and vandalism.

A trial date was fixed for Selkirk Sheriff Court on July 27.