Lout lost the plot with ex, threatening her in street

He ranted at her and her family

A man terrorised his expartner during a row in the street.

Gary McGowan, 30, repeatedly sounded his horn before launching a foul- mouthed rant at Lauren Graham.

He began uttering violent threats – leaving the woman terrified.

McGowan pleaded guilty to acting in a threatening or abusive manner during a hearing at Paisley Sheriff Court.

Sheriff David Pender warned he could face a stern punishment.

He said: “I was considering imposing a substantial fine.

“But I suspect your income is such that I could not do so.

“You do have a substantial record, but very little for this type of offence.”

McGowan targeted his former partner while he was behind the wheel in Elderslie’s Old Road.

He repeatedly beeped at her and family members during the ordeal.

The lout then started shouting and swearing and making threats during the squabble on August 25.

McGowan had been charged with resisting arrest by hindering cops called to the rammy, but this was later dropped.

The court heard he is keen to restart his relationship with the woman.

His defence lawyer confirmed the pair were interested in reconciling.

He said: “She seems to share the view that some kind of relationship can continue.

“He is someone who is fit and able to do unpaid work.”

Sheriff Pender called for a probe into McGowan’s background before making a decision on his punishment.

He added: “I am going to adjourn for the preparation of a criminal justice social work report.”

Experts will meet with the yob to find out more about his life before he returns to the dock.

They will discuss his physical and mental health and attitude towards the offence.

The information will be used to decide which penalty is appropriate for him.

McGowan, of Wren Place, Johnstone, has been ordered to return for sentencing on November 19.