Metal rod hit woman in face
A man who waved a metal rod about in his house, dismissing it as “just a bit of fun,” could have put his partner's sight at risk when it caught her in the face.
Wick Sheriff Court heard on Wednesday that the incident happened after the woman took issue with 32-year-old Gary Pilkington about his excessive drinking.
Fiscal David Barclay said she cautioned him that his behaviour was becoming somewhat ‘boisterous” and it led to “a verbal confrontation”.
Pilkington admitted a reduced charge of culpable and reckless conduct at the couple's home in Cairndhuna Terrace, Wick on May 4, 2020.
Mr Barclay said that Pilkington was laughing as he waved the rod – from a clothes frame airer – saying it was nothing to be concerned about.

The fiscal continued: “While waving the rod about, enthusiastically, the accused didn’t appear to appreciate that he was in close proximity to his partner who was trying to get him to calm down and behave. The rod struck her in her eye and the bridge of her nose was bruised by the impact.”
She was taken to Caithness General Hospital where she received "significant" medical treatment with input from an optician.
Mr Barclay said: “There was concern, initially, that there might be a risk and a danger to her sight, due to her experiencing some blurred vision after the incident. I am happy to report, however, that after further medical investigation, fears there might be any long-lasting effects were allayed."
The court was told that despite the "unfortunate incident" the couple were still together and were keen to put the incident behind them and not "dwell on the past".
Solicitor Patrick O'Dea said that Pilkington had realised that his conduct had been "extremely stupid".
Mr O' Dea added: " He has stated that such an incident will never occur again."
Sheriff Mark Lindsay said he had listened carefully to what had been said and had also taken account of Pilkington's early plea to a reduced charge. He continued the case for six months to allow the accused to demonstrate he can behave.