A THUG punched his girlfriend because he thought she was on snap chat and 'not paying him enough attention'.

Ryan Walker of Princes Court, admitted assaulting his girlfriend on the face at his home in February this year.

The 23-year-old appeared before Sheriff Desmond Leslie at Ayr Sheriff Court last week. The court heard how the couple had been in a relationship for two and a half years.

"Depute fiscal Scott Toal, said: "The incident occurred at 1am. Walker had gone to the toilet because he had been unwell.

"The woman offered him something to eat. He refused and became aggressive. The accused thought she was on snap chat and not paying him enough attention.

"He threw the phone away and punched her on the face which was heard by the neighbours. The complainer left and phoned the police.

"An ambulance was contacted but she didn't require medical attention. He denied he had assaulted her at that time."

Speaking on her behalf, defence solicitor, Ms Gallagher said: "They had been in an on and off relationship. The don't live together. The incident took place at Mr Walker's flat.

"He very much regrets what happened. He had a lot to deal with but he understands that does not excuse this behaviour."

Addressing the dock, Sheriff Leslie, said: "I am going to be watching your step Mr Walker and will defer sentence. If you do get into trouble especially with your ex partner, you will be facing the consequences.

"I say that as you are due to appear in the JP court next month where you were to have been of good behaviour but you have not been."

Sentence on this offence has been deferred until September.