Businessman from Ross-shire 'hugely remorseful' after marriage breakdown flashpoint, Highland court told

A 21-year-long marriage which was on the rocks finally foundered after a late night Ross-shire row when the husband returned home late at night.

Inverness Sheriff Court was told that the wife of 51-year-old businessman George Collins of the Islander Bar and Restaurant was in bed in Wemyss Place, Kyle of Lochalsh and heard her husband and a woman talking outside on the night of April 27 this year.

Fiscal depute Shamielah Ghafar said she enquired about who the woman was and why Collins was so late but he got annoyed and started shouting at her.

"He was screaming at her and smashed a bedside table. He was asked to leave the bedroom and he started to go downstairs only to return, kick items about the bedroom floor. He took off his wedding rings and threw them at his wife, and one hit her on the hand. The police were contacted."

Collins admitted threatening or abusive behaviour and a breach of bail by contacting his partner.

Defence solicitor Maureen Duffy told Sheriff Robert Frazer: "The offences took place in the background of a slow breakdown in the marriage which came to an end after this.

"He accepts his behaviour was unacceptable and is hugely remorseful."

Sheriff Frazer ordered Collins to remain under social work supervision for two years and participate in a programme for domestic abusers.

A four-month long non-harassment order was also imposed.