A WOMAN was knocked unconscious after being hit by her intoxicated husband in Tullibody.

Thomas Nimmo, 65, now of Balfour Court, Kilmarnock, appeared at Alloa Sheriff Court last week for sentencing.

He admitted that on July 21 at Baingle Crescent, Tullibody, he assaulted his wife of 14 years.

Depute fiscal Katherine Fraser said that the couple had been enjoying the sunshine from their garden.

By 8.30pm Nimmo had finished off a litre bottle of rum by himself and fell over into a bush.

A neighbour helped him back into his home where an argument ensued between Nimmo and his wife. He then slapped her on the face causing her to fall over.

The neighbour saw this incident and went back into the house where Nimmo's wife was lying unconscious for several minutes.

Defence solicitor James Savage said the couple had been together for 20 years and married for 14 years.

“He works long hours and when he drinks, he tends to do so to excess,” he added.

Sheriff Alison Michie said: "It would appear to be an isolated incident albeit a serious one."

Sentence was deferred until September 23.