A HAWICK man who admitted obstructing a security officer and attempting to spit on him at Borders General Hospital has been placed on supervision for one year as an alternative to custody. 

Twenty-nine-year-old Alastair Cox also pleaded guilty at Selkirk Sheriff Court to behaving in a threatening or abusive manner on July 1 by shouting and swearing and making threats of violence. 

Defence lawyer Ed Hulme said his client had contacted police asking to be arrested and was taken to the hospital’s accident and emergency department unconscious. 

When Cox woke up he was still intoxicated and committed the offences. 

Mr Hulme said Cox had significant difficulties with his mental health and alcohol abuse.

Cox also admitted making a 999 call from his home in Lovell Court on April 18 which was grossly offensive and making threats towards police officers and threatening to cause damage to Hawick Police Station for which he was fined £200 with a £10 victim surcharge.