A DUNFERMLINE pensioner brandished an axe at his grandson during a disturbance at the family home.

The incident led to 73-year-old Gordon Balfour, of Grange Road, appearing at Dunfermline Sheriff Court.

He admitted that on July 31 at his home he shouted, swore and brandished an axe.

Depute fiscal Laura McManus said the incident occurred after the 20-year-old grandson had an argument with his partner.

When Balfour returned home to find the row going on he lost his temper.

He shouted abuse at his grandson before picking up an axe.

He later told police: “I picked up the axe and I was going to kill the wee ******.”

Defence solicitor Gordon Martin said his client had looked after his grandson since the age of 12.

Balfour had become involved after his wife had previously tried unsuccessfully to calm down the grandson who had been arguing with his girlfriend.

Mr Martin pointed out that his client was detained in police custody following the incident.

“He’s worked all his life and never been in trouble before,” he added.

Sheriff John Morris admonished Balfour.