A GREENOCK man who tried to spit on police after shouting homophobic abuse at his neighbours has been spared jail - despite a sheriff branding his behaviour 'completely unacceptable'.

John MacDonald, whom the sheriff court heard is a Rangers fan, targeted two women at an address on Prospecthill Street, claiming he had been provoked by them playing loud Irish music.

As well as his homophobic remarks, MacDonald, 38, tried to gain entry to their home uninvited during the flashpoint incident in May 2021.

Police later found him boozing in the bedroom of his own flat.

Defence lawyer Gerry Keenan told the court that MacDonald had previously been the victim of anti-social behaviour and threats from his neighbours.

Mr Keenan said: "He was thereafter subjected to loud Irish music which was played into the early hours of the morning.

"He found that his sleeping was being interrupted.

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"He did attempt to resolve this amicably."

Referencing the social work reports at a sentencing hearing, Mr Keenan said their contents echoed the points he had raised previously around MacDonald's mental health.

The solicitor added: "He accepts full responsibility for these crimes, which are serious."

Sheriff James Varney described MacDonald's behaviour as 'completely unacceptable', however, he noted that social workers had indicated 'insight' into his offending, and 'remorse' for his actions.

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Sheriff Varney told him: "If you breach this order there will be no second chances for you."

MacDonald was handed an 18-month community payback order with a supervision requirement to attend appointments when instructed by his supervising officer.

He must also complete 250 hours of unpaid work during this period.

The sheriff imposed a restriction of liberty order, which requires MacDonald to be at his home address between the hours of 7pm and 7am.

A non-harassment order has also been granted, forbidding him from contacting the two women involved for three years.