A BUST-UP in the queue of a Galashiels post office resulted in a local man being fined £200.

John Gallagher Davidson, 50, pleaded guilty to a charge of causing fear and alarm by shouting aggressively at the premises in Channel Street on December 21.

The court was told that the post office had a general counter and a separate one for foreign currency and business enquiries.

Tessa Bradley, prosecuting, said: "The post office is part of the WH Smith shop and was very busy with a large queue of people.

"A customer came in to bank takings from a nearby shop and went to the business counter. The accused was in the general queue and started challenging him shouting 'don't jump the queue'.

"A staff member intervened and explained there were separate queues for general and business enquiries.

"But he failed to desist and continued shouting and was eventually asked to leave the shop but refused to do so.

"He was warned the police would be called but his behaviour escalated with the customer feeling threatened at the ranting and raving.

"He appeared to be slightly drunk.

"Another member of the public got involved and by the time the police arrived the accused he was out of the premises."

Davidson was later traced at his home address in Langlee Road where he lives with his partner.

Defence lawyer Ed Hulme said: "He has had problems with alcohol throughout his life.

"He accepts his conduct would have been alarming to the member of the public."

Sheriff Peter Paterson imposed the £200 fine and warned Davidson of the consequences, given his previous convictions, if it was not paid.