AN Auchinleck bully has been jailed 12 months after demanding cash and harassing his partner.

John Benn, 24, from Ballochmyle Avenue, Auchinleck appeared in custody at Ayr Sheriff Court last week.

The court heard how on October 4 Benn turned up at his partners address at Richmond Terrace, Cumnock at around 9.30pm. A drunk Benn then picked up a garden chair and hurled it at a aside window, smashing it. Benn's partner, Amy Boyd contacted police and Benn was detained.

Having been granted bail on October 5, Benn was warned to stay away from his partner, but on October 12 he returned to her home.

Bullying Benn went to the house at 4pm demanded cash from Ms Boyd and screamed abuse at her when she refused. Benn returned to the house at 7pm and entered the property and once again demanded money. When hen his terrified partner again refused he became abusive and started going through drawers in the kitchen and shouted: "I'll smash this house up and I'll smash you too".

Benn then went to stand outside the front door and Boyd took her chance to lock the door. Benn then kicked the door and continued shouting and swearing.

Solicitor Tony Currie told the court how Benn had been "drinking excessively" prior to the incident.

Sentencing, Sheriff John Montgomery said: "This is a dreadful way to treat your former partner. I have no other choice but a custodial sentence."

Benn was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment.