AN IRVINE man has avoided a jail sentence after being caught with cocaine in his home.

James Hobson, of Bilby Terrace, previously pleaded guilty to being in possession of a quantity of cocaine at his home on May 31 last year.

The 52-year-old appeared for sentencing at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court.

His lawyer said: “He is exceedingly remorseful. He is a working man and has no difficulties doing community service. There doesn’t seem to be a particular focus for supervision.

“The last conviction was in 2018. He accepts he shouldn’t be doing it.”

Sheriff Nicola Patrick said: “I have taken into account everything that has been said on your behalf. [The case] meets the threshold for custody.

“You have been out of trouble for a long time and frankly it was stupid to get involved with this.”

As a direct alternative to custody, Hobson was ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid work in the community.

He will also be supervised by social workers for six months.