A FORMER couple’s bitter custody battle over a dog spilled out of a courtroom and into a nearby car park.

Calum McFarlane was upset at losing the case and aimed offensive remarks at his ex-partner after they left Dunfermline Sheriff Court.

This resulted in a return visit and an appearance in the dock.

McFarlane, 31, of Middlebank Street, Rosyth, admitted that on February 24 at Leys Park Road, Dunfermine, he behaved in a threatening or abusive manner by shouting, swearing and making offensive and derogatory comments to his former partner.

Depute fiscal Azrah Yousaf said the pair had been in a relationship for eight years but it ended in May last year.

She said: “They had a house and a dog together. The complainer kept the dog, a Labrador.”

McFarlane began civil proceedings in a bid to win custody of the dog and they attended a hearing at the court.

“The case was dismissed and the dog remained in the care of the complainer,” said the depute.

Afterwards at 11.40am all parties involved came across each other in the car park at Leys Park Road.

McFarlane said to the other group: “I hope you’re happy.” He added to his ex-partner: “Especially you, you fat c***."

Defence solicitor Jonathan Mathieson-Dear said: “Mr McFarlane maintains he didn’t use those particular words but admits using other very offensive remarks.

“He is adamant he bought the dog and looked after it. He felt aggrieved she had kept it when they broke up.”

The solicitor said his client also “took exception” to comments made during the court proceedings.

“They all happened to be going to the same car park and it got very heated," he said. "This was completely out of character for him and he’s ashamed to find himself in court.”

Sheriff Derek Reekie told McFarlane: “It’s very unfortunate matters escalated in the way they did.” He imposed a fine of £300.