A BALLOCH woman who has taken responsibility for her drinking problem has impressed a sheriff.

Nicola O'Malley, of Cranloch Court, who breached her bail conditions after failing to appear at Dumbarton Sheriff Court, has abstained from alcohol and has applied for a new job, a court was told.

O'Malley's defence solicitor, Brian McGuire, told Dumbarton Sheriff Court that O'Malley had been off the drink for some time.

He said: "She has made an application for a job as a result of feeling better. She has an induction."

Sheriff Maxwell Hendry said: "I view this as a positive development. Can she maintain her abstinence from alcohol without any help? It would be impressive if she could deal with the alcohol issues herself without any help. She is taking responsibility and that is very good."

Turning to address O'Malley, Sheriff Hendry said: "I'm reasonably impressed. I'm prepared to accept that you are working hard at this situation. I often see people start well and then struggle. Congratulations so far.

"You would have a small alarm going off in your head if you were to relapse. If you have any of these things, speak to your supervising officer and ask for help."

O'Malley, 35, told Sheriff Hendry that she would ask for help if needed.

Sheriff Hendry set a further review for October 27.