A DRUG addict bought alcohol from a Dunfermline shop for a girl who was only 13.

Police were contacted when the girl and her friends were seen drinking in the street near Dunfermline bus station.

The incident led to William Strathearn, 39, of James Bank Hostel, James Street, appearing at Dunfermline Sheriff Court.

He admitted that on March 3, at News Express, Pilmuir Street, he bought alcohol for a girl then aged 13.

Depute fiscal Azrah Yousaf said: “The matter came to light because there was a group of young people loitering about in the area consuming alcohol.

“This was reported to the police. An officer spoke to the girl and she said an adult had purchased it. She gave him £10 and he bought the alcohol.

“The accused was traced from CCTV.”

Strathearn told police: “I’m sorry. I didn’t know she was that age.”

Defence solicitor Ian Beatson said his client was a heroin addict. “He says that when he was young, adults would buy him alcohol and he was doing the same thing. He thought she was maybe 16 or 17.”

Sheriff Derek Reekie told Strathearn: “Only one level this was stupid but on another level it is very dangerous to be buying alcohol for people so young.”

Sentencing on Strathearn was deferred until January 17.