A DRUNK headbutted a police officer who was trying to help him get home to West Kilbride from Ayr.

Patrick Finlay had been partying with colleagues in the Boswell’s bar in Ayr in March this year but assaulted the constable outside.

The 25-year-old appeared before Sheriff Mhari Mactaggart at Ayr Sheriff Court last week.

The court heard how officers were alerted by an anonymous phone call from a concerned member of the public.

Depute Fiscal Lorri Pidgeon explained: “Mr Finlay was struggling to stand on his own.

“He told officers he stayed in West Kilbride and that he would not be getting a taxi home.

“Officers tried to help him into the back of the police car and he was supported by them as he crossed the road.

“On crossing the road he became animated and lunged at one of the officers.”

Speaking on his behalf, defence solicitor, Gregor Forbes, said: “Mr Finlay accepts the charges against him and is wholly ashamed of his behaviour.

“People were concerned about his well being.

“My client appreciates that the police were only trying to help him.”

Finlay was ordered by the court to complete 70 hours of unpaid work within the next three months.