A DUNFERMLINE man landed in court after pouring water from a boiler at his partner.

Joseph Mahady's solicitor, James Moncrieff, told Dunfermline Sheriff Court that there had been some problems in the relationship after some health-related issues.

Appearing for sentencing, Mahady, 33, now of Saltire Road, Dalkeith, had previously admitted that on October 3 at Barrie Street, Dunfermline, he behaved in a threatening or abusive manner likely to cause fear or alarm when he shouted, swore, threw household items and repeatedly struck a table with a pepper mill.

He also assaulted his partner by pouring water over her, grabbing her by the throat and pushing her to the ground to her injury.

Depute fiscal Jane Rennie said an argument had broken out between the couple regarding money which resulted in Mahady picking up a tub, which had been collecting dripping water from the boiler, and pouring it over the woman.

She said he then grabbed her by the throat and pushed her to the ground before picking up a pepper mill and hitting it off the kitchen worktops.

Mr Moncrieff said Mahady had gone "over the top" and was remorseful for his behaviour. "He wishes to make a go of the relationship which I understand she is also keen to do," he added. "He appreciates that his behaviour was not acceptable."

Sheriff Michael Fletcher placed Mahady on a community payback order with supervision for two years.

He warned him: "You have a serious record for assault which places you in great difficulty if you commit another assault, as you have done on this occasion."