A FATHER who threatened to "slaughter" his ex-partner's family was remanded last week.

Jamie Clark, 30, issued the threat after an argument with her in the run-up to Christmas.

Falkirk Sheriff Court heard that he told her: "I'm not going to murder them – I'm going to slaughter them."

Prosecutor Sean Maher said the threat was issued in front of a five-year old child.

Mr Maher said: "He began to shout at his ex-partner that he was going to kill her and her family."

He added that said Clark's ex had already noticed he appeared to be "in an agitated state" when he turned up at her home in The Green, Alva, on the morning of December 21.

Police were called and Clark was arrested.

He was taken to Falkirk Police Station, and made no reply when cautioned and charged.

Appearing from custody by video link, Clark, of Beechwood Court, Cumbernauld, pleaded guilty to a charge of using domestically-aggravated threatening and abusive behaviour, while on bail.

Paul Nicolson, defending, said the threats were "stupid remarks" that were "not in any way meant" by Clark.

Sheriff Derek Hamilton deferred sentence for background reports, and remanded Clark in custody.

He said: "These threats that you made are an extremely serious matter."

Clark will reappear for sentence, again by video, at Alloa Sheriff Court on January 14, 2021.