Sobering festive message

Mark Campbell avoided jail at Hamilton Sheriff Court, but was instead handed a series of orders designed to stop him re-offending.

Campbell (23), of Oakdene Avenue, admitted punching Chloe McGuire at his then home in North British Road, Uddingston, in September this year.

He also admitted that he held a stool over his head and refused to leave the Stables Bar in Old Edinburgh Road, Viewpark, on Boxing Day last year.

After studying background reports, Sheriff Andrew McIntyre imposed a community payback order as an alternative to prison.

The sheriff told Campbell, who was represented by solicitor Vincent McGovern, he will be supervised for 18 months and must attend anger management classes and the Change programme for domestic abuse offenders.

Campbell must also receive counselling for drink and substance misuse if required and carry out 140 hours of unpaid community work within six months.

Sheriff McIntyre also imposed a six-week electronic tagging order which prevents him leaving home between 8pm and 7am each day.

And he must not contact Ms McGuire - any contact must be initiated by her.

Campbell was warned he faces jail if he fails to comply with the orders.