New Year visitor arrived with a crowbar

A HOUSHOLDER in Thurso got an unexpected New Year visitor...a man carrying a crowbar!

Matthew Dickson, 23, demanded to see her husband, alleging that he had damaged his caravan, Wick Sheriff Court heard today..

Dickson said that someone would have to pay for the damage and when he didn't see the husband, he motioned to an Audi car outside and said he would just have to "smash that up" although he didn't carry out the threat.

The accused admitted threatening or abusive behaviour at the house in St Olaf Road, Thurso, on January 2.

Fiscal Fraser Matheson said that Dickson had earlier been observed swinging the crowbar as he neared the house.

He said that the accused told the frightened householder he didn't intend assaulting anyone with the weapon and left the house.

The police were informed and arrested Dickson at his home at 71 MacAulay View, Thurso.

Sheriff Andrew Berry, who called for a background report, commented that he regarded such an incident in a public place as "very serious".

Dickson will be sentenced on April 26.