A THUG attacked a man within Greenock Sheriff Court just minutes before he was due to stand trial — with the victim set to give evidence against him.

Stuart Sorley headbutted Stephen Houston in the foyer area of the building as a 'bad blood' neighbour dispute boiled over into violence.

Sorley, 45, pleaded guilty to carrying out the assault after viewing CCTV footage of the flashpoint incident on the day the case was due to be heard.

The court was told how he walked 'aggressively' and 'at speed' towards Houston before smashing his head into the left side of his face.

Prosecutor Andrew Brown said: "Mr Sorley and Mr Houston are known to each other as there has been an ongoing neighbour dispute for some time.

"The accused was appearing for trial in relation to a matter and Mr Houston was to appear as a Crown witness.

"Realising that an attack was imminent, Mr Houston quickly entered the main reception area to seek a safe place.

"He was closely followed by the accused who walked with intent towards him.

"The accused used his head with force to headbutt Mr Houston to the left side of his face and this caused him to stumble backwards.

"Mr Houston took hold of the accused in order to prevent any further attack.

"The pair were separated and the accused was arrested and made no reply."

Sorley, of Cornhaddock Street, committed the offence on the morning of July 20.

In carrying out the assault he was also in breach of a bail order not to approach or contact Houston in any way.

Sorley's lawyer, Aidan Gallagher, said: "There is quite a lengthy background here.

"Mr Houston was charged and prosecuted in relation to Mr Sorley's partner.

"There is a history of bad blood."

Sheriff Sheena Fraser said: "Given the nature of the offence, and in particular where it happened, reports are required here."

Sentence on Sorley has been adjourned until January 17 for a background report and electronic tagging assessment to be carried out.