A MAN who shouted, swore at his partner before smashing a guitar at her home has been slapped with community service.

Jamie Paterson of Bellesleyhill Avenue, Ayr admitted frightening the woman in July this year when he behaved in an abusive manner. The 24-year-old appeared before Sheriff Mhari Mactaggart at Ayr Sheriff Court last week. The court heard how the couple do not live together and Paterson would stay over.

Depute Fiscal Andrew Lazzarin explained: "It seems that the accused has been previously the victim of domestic abuse but there had been no allegations made against him.

"He went to his partner's home at 9pm drunk and agitated. He shouted, swore and smashed a guitar. The woman told him to get out.An unknown person who was outside the building convinced him to do so. But he came back and police were contacted. 

"Paterson was found lying against the front door and had a small cut to his hand. He made no reply to caution and charge.

Speaking on his behalf, defence solicitor, Mandy Stewart, said: "Mr Paterson had been on a night out with friends and had drunk too much alcohol. He had gone home but could not get in and ended up banging on the door of his partner. The situation escalated quickly and he is embarrassed."

Addressing the dock, Sheriff Mactaggart said: "I want you to address the issues that cause you to offend in this manner."

Paterson has been ordered to complete 12 months of a community payback order under supervision and 100 hours unpaid work within six months.