A MAN who launched a violent attack on a Helensburgh shopkeeper who kicked him out for his drunken behaviour has avoided a jail sentence.

Dean Heaney, 21, went into the Lifestyle Express in East Princes Street around 8.45pm on February 6 with a woman and both were obviously "very intoxicated".

Dumbarton Sheriff Court heard last week how the shop manager asked the pair to leave and Heaney initially refused but was eventually escorted out.

As soon as they were outside, Heaney began assaulting the shop owner by repeatedly punching him to the body and head. The man didn't suffer any injuries but witnesses contacted police.

Officers were on the scene within 10 minutes and got a description of Heaney, who was found soon after at Helensburgh Central rail station. They took him back to the scene and witnesses identified him as the person responsible.

Heaney, of Langbar Crescent, Easterhouse, was so drunk he couldn't be cautioned and charged.

Defence solicitor Brian McGuire told the court Heaney had "substantial difficulties" throughout his life.

He said: "This is a situation where he may be at something of a crossroads. There has been some intervention but clearly not the level it should be."

Sheriff Simon Pender said: "This was completely unacceptable behaviour. It's clearly a case where a custodial sentence would be justified."

But instead, Heaney was put under supervision for 18 months and ordered to do 270 hours of unpaid work in the community within 12 months.