A HAWICK man sent a Valentine’s Day Card and a Mother’s Day Card to his former partner and other messages pleading for her to rekindle their relationship, despite being warned by police not to contact her.

The woman broke off their relationship last August.

But for four months John Johnstone continued engaging in a course of conduct which was likely to cause her fear and alarm.

The 50-year-old, of Eildon Road, pleaded guilty to a stalking charge at Selkirk Sheriff Court and sentence was deferred for background reports.

Drew Long, prosecuting, said: “The relationship came to an end in August 2022 when the woman decided she did not want it to continue but agreed to stay in touch at that stage.

“But Mr Johnstone refused to accept the relationship was at an end.

“She made it clear to him in 2022 that she no longer wanted to have any contact as the relationship was at an absolute end and did not want him nearby.

“She wrote him a letter stating this.

“But he replied her wanted to rekindle the relationship and concerns about his behaviour resulted in the matter being reported to the police.”

Mr Long said that in November 2022 police gave him a warning not to be in touch with the complainer.

But on Valentine’s Day in 2023 she received a card which was not signed but stated: “I totally regret losing you.”

In March on Mother’s Day she received a card which a hand written note from Johnstone explaining that he missed her and left his mobile number and suggested she get in touch.

Police were contacted and in April Johnstone was arrested.

Mr Long said: “He said to the police words to the effect that he had received only one official warning and there should have been more than one.

“He was cautioned and charged and made no reply.”

Johnstone’s lawyer said her client had been out of trouble for more than five years and apart from this case had no outstanding matters.

She added: “He admits the behaviour in the manner libelled.

“He ought to have known not to send any communication to the complainer.

“He has told me he did not intend to cause any distress to the complainer but he appreciates he did and offers his apologies to her for the behaviour.”

Sheriff Kathrine Mackie said it was intriguing Johnstone felt he needed more than one official warning and added the woman had also told him she did not want any contact.

She deferred sentence until October 2 for a Criminal Justice Social Work Report which would also consider the Caledonian Men’s Programme.

A Non-Harassment Order would also be considered on that date.