A young man who punched a bartender after being asked to leave an Ayr steakhouse was ordered to pay compensation after assaulting the man when his drink was stopped and then "reading the bill".  

Craig Marshall, 21, admitted assaulting the man in the Drunken Coo Steakhouse on Bresford Terrace, causing him to fall back and strike the bar, to his injury. 

A not guilty plea to behaving in a threatening or abusive manner, making threats and challenging the man to a fight was accepted by prosecutors. 

The Procurator Fiscal depute said: “The witness was on duty and was made aware of a male and female who were under the influence. 

“They were asked to leave and finish their drinks.  

"An argument ensued and again he was asked to leave.  

“More words were shared and the accused walked back and punched the witness, who fell backwards.  

“Only the position of the bar stopped him fully falling to the ground. 

“He was dazed by this and the accused left. Police were contacted. 

"He later attended Ayr police office, where he was cautioned and charged." 

Defence solicitor Steven Maxwell explained his client "has no previous [criminal] matters", and lashed out on "being told the drink was stopped" and then when he "found out the bill".

He said: "He is very remorseful. This was a wake-up call. He has pulled himself together."  

Sheriff Desmond Leslie said: "This is totally unacceptable behaviour towards someone in the course of their employment.

"You work, don't you? You would not expect to be assaulted in the course of your employment."

Marshall, of Sannox View, Ayr, was ordered to pay a £300 fine plus £300 compensation to the man he attacked.

He will also pay a £40 victim surcharge payment to the Scottish Government, totalling £640.