A MAN shouted racist abuse at the female owner of a Tillicoultry pub where he had been barred.

The incident resulted in Paul Elliot, of The Nebit, Alva, appearing at Alloa Sheriff Court last Thursday, August 31, for sentencing.

The 37-year-old admitted to the charge that took place on August 28, last year, at the Bridge Inn, High Street, Tillicoultry.

Elliot shouted, swore, made racial remarks and threats to a woman who was working there at the time.

A sheriff later described the accused's "terrible behaviour" as "very unpleasant".

Depute fiscal Sarah Smith told the court that the target of the abuse was the female owner of the pub.

Elliot had been previously been barred from drinking at the Bridge Inn.

However, the owner was informed that Elliot was drinking with another male in the courtyard area of the pub.

She approached the accused and reminded him that he was barred.

The woman then told the pair they would be refunded for the drinks which she lifted from their table.

An enraged Elliot then jumped up and confronted the owner.

He said: “You’re a cow. I’m going to smash you. I’m going to smash your partner.”

The accused also uttered a racial epithet, before then continuing to shout and make threats.

As a result of his conduct, police being called to the pub.

Defence solicitor Charlotte Watt said: “He feels guilt, shame and is embarrassed.

"He has difficulties with alcohol and this incident has been an eye-opener for him.”

Sheriff Garry Sutherland told Elliot: “This was terrible behaviour and that sort of racist language is not tolerated in modern-day Scotland. It was very unpleasant.”

He imposed a community payback order with 125 hours of unpaid work and one year’s supervision.