A THUG who attacked a member of staff at Ayr's Vito's to Go has been detained in a Young Offenders Institution for 12 months.

Sean McCulloch, of Ayr pleaded guilty to attacking the employee by attempting to strike him on the body with a menu board, seize hold of him causing him to fall.

McCulloch repeatedly punched him on the head and body severely injuring him. The 20-year-old appeared before Sheriff John Montgomery at Ayr Sheriff Court for sentencing last Tuesday, May 3.

Speaking on his behalf defence solicitor Tony Currie said: "There have been occasions where he has drank alcohol causing him to act aggressively. He was under the influence on this occasion.

"The shop keeper was on the ground had dislocated his shoulder and required surgery but has made a full recovery.

"The report gives details of Mr McCulloch's diagnoses with autism but has a good support network from his family. 

"There may be a viable alternative to custody and he is more than willing to complete a community payback order Your Lordship should you find this appropriate.

"He is under 21 and has no other matters outstanding. I hope you can be persuaded not give him a custodial sentence."

Sheriff Montgomery spoke directly to McCulloch: "In relation to the matter you carried out an unprovoked attack on a shop keeper, giving him a serious injury. 

"I have no option but to give you a custodial sentence but given how young you are I will limit it to 12 months."

McCulloch was removed from the dock.