A man who assaulted his ex-partner has been given a second chance by a sheriff.

Brian Welsh, of Portland Street in Troon, also breached bail conditions prohibiting him from contacting the woman.

Welsh returned to Ayr Sheriff Court recently for sentencing having previously pled guilty to three charges.

Procurator Fiscal Jason Bell told the court that Welsh’s relationship ended in January of this year.

On the evening of June 9, Welsh’s ex-partner received a text from him saying he was feeling suicidal and was making plans to take his own life.

Mr Bell said: “The woman was alarmed at this and contacted police.”

Welsh’s ex attended his home along with another witness. Welsh came outside and took the phone from his ex-partner. She asked for it back, but he refused and began shouting and swearing. He then kicked her on the leg.

Police attended and found the complainer and the other witness both very upset. Welsh continued to act aggressively towards the woman and towards police.

As a result of his behaviour, Welsh was placed under arrest and held in custody.

Welsh appeared from custody on June 11 and was admitted to bail with special conditions preventing him from contacting his ex-partner. But he breached those conditions within hours.

That evening, the woman received about 20 messages and a number of video calls.

Representing Welsh, solicitor Ashleigh Kane said:“Since his breach of bail, he has been completely abstinent from alcohol.”

Sheriff Mhairi McTaggart deferred sentence until March for Welsh to be of good behaviour.

She said: “I understand it’s difficult when a relationship breaks down. If you commit another offence you are very likely to lose your liberty.”