Lout dodges jail term — but must wear electronic tag

A tanked- up thug who booted his pregnant girlfriend has narrowly avoided jail.

Lout Mark Grant, 42, assaulted Christine Boyce, who was then 22 weeks with child, at a house in Paisley’s Morar Drive in February, when he kicked her on the body during a drunken rammy.

The town’s sheriff court heard the yob, who has since been dumped by Ms Boyce, was banned from approaching or contacting her following the attack.

This week, he appeared for sentencing, where his lawyer admitted his client’s alcohol abuse lay at the root of his problems.

He said: “He had been round at an address, where alcohol had been consumed and an argument began, which developed into a physical fight between parties, during which a lady was kicked, albeit the person kicked was pregnant at the time.

“This does him no favours, it being a problem with alcohol that he faces, and he faces the stark choice open to him where it is a custodial sentence or a noncustodial sentence.

“His last conviction was back in 2012, and he has managed to stay out of trouble since then, so I would urge the court to consider a non- custodial sentence in his disposal where he would be required to attend alcohol counselling.”

The court heard that Grant, of Highholm Street, Port Glasgow, had also failed to turn up at court in April for sentencing because he An information session has been organised to help people with applications to the Big Lottery Fund’s Awards for All.

The fund is open to local community groups looking for funding of up to £10,000.

Renfrewshire Council’s community economic had drank so much he “lost track” of the days.

He pleaded guilty to assaulting Ms Boyce during the incident on February 27.

Sheriff Tom McCartney said: “Clearly, this offence of assault by kicking a pregnant lady is a very serious one.

“And I note your previous convictions for violent offending.

“On the other hand, it has been five years since there was an offence, but from reports you have a serious alcohol problem which could be benefit from being development team has organised the information session on Friday, June 16, to offer advice, information and tips to help people complete their applications.

There will also be a funding officer from the Big Lottery Fund to give extra information and one-to-one discussions with addressed.”

He handed Grant a restriction of liberty order, where he will be fitted with an electronic tag, requiring him to stay indoors between 7pm and 7am.

He was also given a probation order lasting 18 months, where he is required to attended alcohol counselling, and Sheriff McCartney gave him a Non Harassment Order, banning him from approaching his ex-partner for one year.

He added: “This is a direct alternative to a prison sentence.” potential applicants.

The event takes place between 1pm and 3pm at the InCube shops at 27 High Street, Paisley. Spaced are limited so anyone interested is advised to book early.

To book a spot, phone 0141 618 6881/ 6070 or email econdev. community@renfrewshire.gov.uk