Farewell party ended with man waving a knife about

A man’s plan to start a new life in Aberdeen turned sour when he was charged with brandishing a knife.

Paul Macklin, 41, of Hogalee, Scalloway, became aggressive at an address in Grostane following a night out to mark his impending departure from the isles.

At Lerwick Sheriff Court today he admitted brandishing the weapon and smashing a mobile phone and other household items. Macklin also admitted having the Class C drug diazepam.

Procurator fiscal Duncan MacKenzie said Macklin attended the address “intoxicated” and was “behaving eratically”.

“He was aggressive and waving a knife about.”

The court heard Macklin was subject to an unexpired sentence.

Defence agent Tommy Allan said Macklin had plans to move in with his girlfriend in Aberdeen’s Northfield area.

He said Macklin had come to Shetland to collect some belongings, after arranging with a friend to come from Aberdeen with a van.

“He had arranged for a weekend out to give him a send-off. At one point he felt he should not be in pubs any more.”

There was talk of Macklin heading home for the night, but he ended up at the Grostane address.

“He was persuaded to take shots of spirits. He has no recollection of what happened thereafter.”

Mr Allan added Macklin was concerned for the welfare of his dog should he be remanded. He said Macklin had spent the weekend in custody and had pleaded guilty at the first opportunity.

Honorary sheriff Willie Shannon deferred sentence until 27th May.