A BONHILL man who was told to carry out unpaid community work after admitting possession of an offensive weapon has been accused by a sheriff of trying to avoid his punishment.

James Halliday was handed a punishment of 200 hours' unpaid work for being in possession of a baseball bat and using it to strike a vehicle in Elmbank Drive in January 2016.

The 25-year-old appeared at Dumbarton Sheriff Court for a review of his sentence on Friday – when his solicitor said he had carried out only 77 hours of his sentence.

Tom Brown told the court his client was attempting to set up his own business as a plasterer and would also soon become a father.

Mr Brown said: “I've told him this is a direct alternative to a custodial sentence and he's got to concentrate on getting the hours done.”

Mr Brown said Halliday, of Elmbank Drive, had suggested a 'restriction of liberty' order as an alternative sentence.

“I've explained matters to him as best as I possibly can,” Mr Brown continued.

“His position is he wants to avoid a custodial sentence.

“He is trying to do his best for his family but I've explained it's a juggling act he can't take part in.”

Sheriff Maxwell Hendry replied: “His secondary position is he wants to avoid unpaid work."

Turning to address Halliday directly, the sheriff said: “I see your frustration, but this is a punishment. You're not expected to like it – you're expected to do it.

“The alternative will completely mess up your prospects. Get on with it.”

Halliday's progress with his sentence will be reviewed again on September 4.