A LOUT who flew into a rage against paramedics and prevented them from attending a string of emergency calls could be spared prison.

John Allan, 64, lashed out after being roused by the ambulance crew when they found him 'unconscious' on a Greenock pavement following a drunken fall.

His behaviour was so bad that the medics had to retreat to their vehicle and alert police as Allan — whose offending history dates back to 1966 — continued to rant at them.

However, a sheriff is considering a non-custodial sentence after Allan's lawyer told the town's court that he is an 'engaging and intelligent man'.

Allan has pleaded guilty to assaulting one paramedic by attempting to punch him, repeatedly making threats of violence towards police and paramedics, booting a PC and struggling and resisting arrest.

He committed the offences at Lomond Road and Greenock police office on May 13.

When he was at Greenock police office Allan violently resisted arrest and a three-man custody team was required to get him into a cell.

At the latest calling of the case solicitor Graeme Wright said: "Mr Allan has been offending a long time.

"However, between 2009 and 2017 there was nothing. There is an eight-year break."

Mr Wright added: "He is someone of considerable abilities and I have found him to be an engaging and intelligent man.

"This sounds like a Morrissey song but he was Dux of his approved school.

"If he avoids drink he is not someone who would trouble the court again.

"Mr Allan makes no excuses for his behaviour and he extends an apology to those affected by it."

Sheriff Andrew McIntyre ordered a report from Inverclyde's integrated alcohol services team.

The sheriff told Allan, of Clydeview Road: "I am in some doubt about whether this is the course to ultimately follow, but if you are going to have a community-based disposal you must comply with the report."

Sentence has been deferred until June 26.