A MAN caught carrying a knife in Ayr said he was trying to cut a rope at home before his dog ran off.

Andrew Hood, 53, of James Street was arrested before his dog was found on March 3.

Depute Fiscal Lindzi Bayne told Ayr Sheriff Court last week that police arrested him for a different matter and found the knife when he was searched.

Hood’s solicitor Mr Ian Gillies told the court: “He was out cutting a rope and his dog ran away and he put the knife in his trousers.

“He tells me there was no intent to injure any person.”

Mr Gillies added: “Mr Hood was arrested before the dog was found. It was waiting at the step for him to come home.”

Hood was admonished and dismissed on the charge and the 11.5 inch blade was recovered by the court