Extra £30k into scheme

COUNCIL chiefs are pumping an extra £30,000 into a local scheme to help fight fuel poverty.

The move comes with more than 200 people on a waiting list for a £75 support payment.

Due to the increased level of demand for help, the cash for the programme has been increased.

The victim — who was left bleeding from a wound above her left eye — told attacker Martin McLeod that she loved him as he was led away to a prison van.

McLeod lashed out with his fist within their flat on John Wilson Street during a 90-minute disturbance which sparked ‘several’ 999 emergency calls to police.

He pleaded guilty to the indictment charge through lawyer Aidan Gallagher, who told the court: “His partner is in attendance in court in support of Mr McLeod, and parties intend to resume their relationship in the fullness of time.”

The court heard how an argument developed between McLeod and his girlfriend shortly after he returned home at 7pm on May 1, which ultimately resulted in his arrest at 8.30pm.

Prosecutor Mark Nicol said: “The accused and the complainer had been in what has been described as an on-off relationship for a period of three years.

“The complainer and another woman were within the flat, the accused attended and an argument began between him and the complainer.

“The accused began acting aggressively towards his partner and punched her to her left eye, which began swelling and bruising immediately.”

Fiscal depute Mr Nicol added: “The other female who was in the flat summoned the assistance of a neighbour to contact the police, although several 999 calls were received regarding an ongoing disturbance at the locus.

“The complainer was taken to hospital and was examined by a doctor who confirmed that she