A man who threatened to “do in” a bus driver tried to punch a passenger in the face as he was escorted off the vehicle.

James McBride, 47, was travelling on the Stagecoach bus from Edinburgh to Glasgow on the afternoon of September 5 last year.

He walked down the stairs from the upper deck and approached the driver’s window.

He began banging on the perspex glass whilst shouting and swearing. He shouted “I’ll do you in when we get off the bus”, as it approached Buchanan Bus Station.

At Glasgow Sheriff Court last week, prosecutor Jeremy O’Neill said: “The accused continued this aggressive manner until the bus turned into the bus station.

“He was escorted from the bus by the driver and was assisted by a passenger. Whilst he was being escorted from the bus onto the street, he threw a punch at the passenger. This did not make contact.

“The accused was restrained by security staff at the bus station. Police were contacted and attended.

“He was placed under arrest, conveyed to London Road police station, cautioned, and charged.”

McBride’s lawyer said: “This would have been quite alarming for the bus driver in particular. He has outstanding matters which are analogous. He advises me they are related to alcohol.

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“It’s quite surprising the progress he’s made. He’s managed to abstain from alcohol. I would ask you to deal with this matter today. I would invite you to impose a financial penalty or unpaid work.”

McBride, of Edinburgh, was ordered to carry out 135 hours of unpaid work.

Sheriff Amel Elfallah told him: “Your behaviour was violent, it was threatening and it was directed towards a driver and a passenger on a bus. You can’t behave in this way. It’s completely unacceptable.

“As your solicitor pointed out, it would have been extremely alarming and frightening for the people involved. You have a considerable record, but it’s slowed down recently.”