A MAN has been released on bail after he was charged with assaulting 'Scheme' star Dayna McLaughlin.

Jamie Ginger of George Square, Ayr pleaded guilty to assaulting Ms McLaughlan at her home on November 23 last year. He further admitted stealing a mobile phone from her home on the same day. 

The 33-year-old appeared before Sheriff Mhairi MacTaggart at Ayr Sheriff Court last week after failure to appear at a meeting as part of a community payback order previously enforced for this offence.

Speaking on his behalf defence solicitor Ian Gillies said: "There is a letter regarding Mr Ginger's non attendance. He tells the reason for this because he suffered heat stroke and was in bed for three days.

"I have told him that he should have at least phoned me and I could have done something about it. There is no excuse."

Sheriff MacTaggart addressed the dock: "Mr Ginger you and I both know you are no stranger to these courts and no what is expected of you. 

"Now I have been told you could not get to your appointment because of heat stroke. I find this incredible Mr Ginger. I did not expect to hear that. Putting it bluntly I could send you somewhere that would prevent you from getting heat stroke.

"You will speak to the social worker before you leave here."

The case adjourned to allow the courts to obtain a restriction of liberty assessment and criminal justice social work report. Sentence has been deferred.