Man '˜tried to murder partner with car'

Darren Johnstone appeared in court today over an alleged attack on Kay Thomson in High Street East, Anstruther, on January 28 this year.

He is accused of driving his car the wrong way down a one-way street, stopping the vehicle, aiming it at Miss Thomson then reversing at speed towards her in an attempt to strike her with the car.

Prosecutors say he then struck her with the car and collided with another car before seizing her by the hair, dragging her then repeatedly kicking her on the face to her injury and attempted to murder her.

Further charges allege he vandalised a car by smashing a beer keg off it repeatedly and that he was driving while unfit through drink or drugs.

The charges are alleged to be aggravated by Johnstone being on bail from Dunfermline Sheriff Court, bail having been granted on January 11, and by the involvement of abuse of his partner.

Johnstone (29) of Cowdenbeath made no plea during a brief private hearing on petition at Dundee Sheriff Court.

Sheriff Linda Smith fully committed Johnstone for trial and remanded him in custody pending further court dates being set.