A GOUROCK man with multiple convictions for domestic abuse has been told to undergo a year of anger management — or go to prison.

Gary McCauley assaulted his partner on the town's Shore Street to rack up his fourth such offence.

McCauley, 43, committed a previous offence against her last year and has convictions for abusing another woman as well.

Sheriff Joseph Hughes said he was running out of sentencing options other than custody, and told McCauley: "I'm really struggling here."

The court heard that McCauley seized and pushed the woman after she'd injured herself in an accident whilst drunk on November 23 last year.

An allegation that he'd also shook her was removed from the charge following talks between defence lawyer Aidan Gallagher and prosecutors.

Sheriff Hughes remarked: "There are previous convictions, obviously he has been very volatile, and with the previous matters it's all a bit worrying."

Solicitor Mr Gallagher said: "The last conviction relates to the same complainer, the other two convictions do not."

Sheriff Hughes responded: "That makes it worse, the fact that there are different complainers makes it obvious that there is a continuing problem.

"It can't be blamed on circumstances if this has happened with other people."

Mr Gallagher said: "Parties had been in a relationship and there had been an issue regarding his partner and alcohol, and she managed to injure herself."

The court was told that McCauley had gone out to look for the woman because she hadn't returned to his flat on Cardwell Road.

He also admitted a charge of assaulting another man by pushing him on the body during the incident.

Sheriff Hughes told McCauley: "I'm not overly persuaded by the background circumstances.

"You have, through different relationships, committed offences of domestic abuse.

"No blame can be attached to anyone apart from yourself — you are responsible.

"If you come back with any more offences of a domestic nature you will be moving up to a different level.

"I consider that the best thing to do is try to address the management of your anger through supervision.

"It is up to you."

McCauley, whom the court heard now lives in Paisley, has also been ordered to complete 180 hours of unpaid work.

The community payback order has been imposed as a direct alternative to prison.