AN IRVINE man who staged a bomb hoax in an attempt to escape drug debts has been jailed.

Martin McGettigan, 38, falsely claimed that there was a bomb at Saltcoats train station on December 9.

The incident occurred when McGettigan first attended Saltcoats Police Office to admit to offences that he had not committed in a bid to get himself arrested.

Officers were unaware of these incidents being reported to them and were not in the position to simply arrest McGettigan for the offences he claimed he committed.

Kilmarnock Sheriff Court heard how McGettigan was a known drug user to the police and owed money for various drug debts.

After his unsuccessful attempt, McGettigan made the short trip across the road to the train station where he used a payphone and dialled 999.

McGettigan, who is currently serving a prison sentence, stated to the operator that there was a bomb at the station and provided a false name.

It was noted that McGettigan, who at the time of the offence resided in Victoria House, Boyle Street, sounded drunk and incoherent.

After spotting two police officers who arrived on the scene at 9.35pm, McGettigan hung up the phone. The officers found nothing untoward at the platform or the station and spoke with McGettigan who admitted making the call.

He was cautioned, charged and released.

McGettigan appeared from custody at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court last week and pled guilty.

His representative Mr Murray revealed how McGettigan had a long-standing heroin addiction and found himself in “significant” debt to drug dealers.

Threats were made to McGettigan about his increasing debts and was fearful for his safety.

Mr Murray added that it was in “desperation” that McGettigan made admissions at the station in order to escape his debts.

Presiding Sheriff Shirley Foran said: “This is a very serious matter and merits a significant sentence.” McGettigan was sentenced to eight months in jail.