An Ayr man is set to face trial after being accused of two assaults and robberies as well as an attack on a policewoman.

William Rodie, 35, appeared from custody at Ayr Sheriff Court last week, where he denied all the charges, lodging a special defence of ‘self defence’.

He is accused of assaulting a man in Russell Drive, Ayr, on July 10, 2022, by repeatedly striking him on the head and body with an unknown bladed article, to his severe and permanent disability. He is also accused of stealing the man’s mobile phone.

Rodie also faces a charge of assaulting a man in the town's Galloway Avenue on July 13, 2023, repeatedly punching him on the head and then robbing him of a bank card and mobile phone.

Finally, he faces a charge of assaulting a PC in the execution of her duty on July 19, 2023, kicking her on the body.

All the alleged offences were committed while Rodie was on bail.

The Procurator Fiscal told the court that a number of witnesses were set to be called at the trial and suggested the case could be heard in July.

Rodie’s lawyer said he had no issue with that date, prompting an outburst from the accused from the dock.

Rodie, who has been held in custody since July 17 last year, said: “What do you mean nae issue? I’ve been in for all this f****** time. I’m not going to get all this time back.

“I’m supposed to be innocent until found guilty. I haven’t been found guilty…”

The fiscal said the July date was the earliest that could be set, given the court’s schedules, adding: “The accused has a lengthy record.”

The Sheriff told the accused the court was "not casual about his liberty" and a trial date was confirmed for July.