A 43-YEAR-OLD man’s abusive behaviour towards his ex-partner was branded “pathetic” by a sheriff.

In the dock at Dunfermline Sheriff Court was Marcus Sinclair, of Ochilview Drive, High Valleyfield.

He admitted that between January 1-4 last year, at High Valleyfield, Lochgelly and elsewhere, he engaged in an abusive course of conduct towards his ex-partner.

He acted aggressively, criticised her, accused her repeatedly of being unfaithful, contacted her repeatedly by telephone, made derogatory comments repeatedly towards her, shouted and swore at her, sent her abusive text messages, sent her a picture of an injury and punched a door, damaging it.

He also admitted he breached bail conditions between March 3 and April 9 last year when he contacted his former partner repeatedly.

The court was told Sinclair had been in a five-month relationship with the woman.

Defence solicitor Alexander Flett said: “It was a relatively brief and unsuccessful relationship. He has a good job and good income as a tanker driver.”

Sheriff David Hall commented: “He’s 43, he should have known better. It’s pathetic behaviour for a man of his age.”

Sheriff Hall imposed a community payback order with 150 hours of unpaid work, a two-year non-harassment and a fine of £420.

The sheriff also warned Sinclair to “lose the attitude” or he would find himself in more trouble.