A MAN caught with a knife in an Irvine doctors’ surgery has dodged a prison sentence George Cunningham, 48, was found in possession of the offensive weapon at Bourtreehill Medical Practice on August 26.

He also admitted possessing the knife in Cheviot Way and elsewhere in Irvine. Cunningham previously pled guilty to the offence and appeared from custody at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court last week following the production of social work reports.

Recalling the initial diet, presiding Sheriff Alistair Watson described the case as “unusual”. Cunningham had the knife concealed within his sleeve but only realised the knife was there when it was discovered by surgery staff.

That was according to defence solicitor Jim Irvine who said Cunningham, of Rigfoot, had time to reflect on matters and wrote a “well-composed” letter explaining his background and lifestyle. In the letter, Cunningham explained how around the time of the offence his life was “in a bit of a mess”.

Mr Irvine revealed that Cunningham was taking methadone supported by heroin which he stated “is always a bad combination”.

But he insisted that although Cunningham had a knife in his possession, he was in no way aggressive or threatening towards staff.

Mr Irvine said that was backed up in a statement from the assistant practice manager. He added that Cunningham, who is registered with the surgery, was even seen by his doctor despite the discovery of the knife.

But during his appointment staff called the police who were waiting for him. Cunningham wasn’t cautioned or charged due to his level of drug intoxication.

Mr Irvine revealed that Cunningham was “at pains” to admit the charge and felt the report was slightly misconstrued.

He said that Cunningham took full responsibility for having the knife and can’t understand why it was in his possession, such was his chaotic lifestyle at the time.

Mr Irvine argued that Cunningham’s knife possession was distinguishable from other examples.

He said: “I fully appreciate because I come to court regularly that the possession of knives generally attracts a custodial sentence.

“The question is if you can distinguish this from young people having knives in the street at night. That’s not what we have here.” Mr Irvine added that Cunningham is now drug free other than anything prescribed to him. When passing sentence, Sheriff Watson gave Cunningham a stern warning about his future conduct.

He said: “I have to tell you I not only had custody in my mind but I had the exact period of custody.

“But I am persuaded to give you an opportunity although I am not entirely confident.

“This is not the end of the road, this is the start of the road.

“If you breach my orders, which you have got by the skin of your teeth, then it’s hard to see anything other than you going into custody for a significant period.” Cunningham was sentenced to 18 months supervision with a Restriction of Liberty Order requiring him to remain within his house between 7pm and 7am for three months.