A MAN who is facing having his legs amputated due to years of drinking has pleaded guilty to buying vodka for children in Greenock.

Craig Boyland — who appeared in court in a wheelchair — purchased half bottles of Glen's for 14-year-olds who approached him in the street.

Boyland, 47, claims that he was so intoxicated when he committed the offence at the Buyrite shop on Grey Place that he can't remember doing it.

However, defence lawyer Aidan Gallagher told Greenock Sheriff Court that his client 'accepts' his guilt.

Prosecutor Kevin Doherty said: "He was seen by a local authority official as she was leaving work.

"She observed Craig Boyland in the street speaking with two individuals who were clearly children, and was suspicious of this.

"She took observations of the group and observed money changing hands from the children to the accused.

"The witness watched as the accused made his way into a nearby store that is known to sell alcohol.

"She reported the matter to the police and summoned colleagues."

Fiscal depute Mr Doherty added: "Police found the accused in possession of two half bottles of Glen's vodka.

"The children confirmed that they had asked Craig Boyland to purchase the alcohol for them.

"The accused was cautioned and charged and made no reply."

Solicitor Mr Gallagher told the court how his client is currently residing in the Inverclyde Centre because he can no longer climb the stairs to his flat.

He added: "He has limited mobility and an assessment has been carried out as to whether or not amputation is necessary.

"This harks back to a previous lifestyle, as he has had issues with alcohol over the years.

"Mr Boyland has no recollection of the incident but accepts it."

Sheriff Andrew McIntyre told Boyland: "Someone in your circumstances should be doing their best to protect local children from the dangers of alcohol.

"This is a serious matter but I see that you have not offended for some time."

The sheriff fined Boyland, currently of the Inverclyde Centre, £475.