Workmate assaulted colleague in Wick after night out

Thomas Couse wanted one of his workmates to continue drinking with him and reacted badly when they rejected the invitation.

Drink-fuelled Couse (38) grabbed Steven Calder, in a headlock and wrestled him to the floor of their digs in Smith Terrace, Wick, the town’s sheriff court was told today.

The accused was arrested by the police and, when released later, threatened officers and struggled with them.

Couse admitted two charges of threatening or abusive behaviour and one of assaulting Mr Calder on February 24. He was fined a total of £470.

Fiscal David Barclay said the two men were part of a group that had come north together to carry out a contract in Caithness though they did not know each other before that.

When they all arrived back at their digs Couse continued to drink and wanted Mr Calder to join him.

However said Mr Barclay: “It was three or four in the morning and Mr Calder declined the offer as he just wanted to get to bed ahead of the next day’s work.”

Following the assault on Mr Calder his colleagues reported the matter to the police, fearing the situation might escalate.

Couse, of Clanyre Drive, Coatbridge, was arrested and, when he was released later, threatened police officers.

Solicitor Fiona MacDonald said that Couse had subsequently lost his job but had been able to find alternative employment.

She added: “He was horrified when he read the charges later.”