A FIFE man who trashed his prison cell has been spared a return to custody after a court heard he was at risk of becoming "institutionalised".

Craig Thomson was a inmate at HMP Glenochil on December 7 last year when he began shouting and swearing at staff members.

The 22-year-old then became violent by striking and throwing a television, window, shelving units and a sink before struggling with staff members.

Alloa Sheriff Court heard that Thomson was put in segregation as a result of the outburst and that a social work report failed to identify any "protective factors" which could help prevent reoffending.

Kelly Howe, representing Thomson, told the court that her client was at risk of being "institutionalised", adding that he is "fed up of his situation", and is willing to change his life for the better now.

The solicitor added that his ex-girlfriend is now pregnant and he wants to become a "role model" for the child, which Ms Howe argued should count as a protective factor.

Sheriff David Mackie told Thomson, of Craig Mile Street, Dunfermline, that he is pleased with his current attitude, adding that prison is not the answer just now.

He was sentenced to carry out 160 hours of unpaid work.