In the last three years, police have been called to the house 10 times in relation to "domestic incidents".

At Jedburgh Sheriff Court last Thursday, Roman Osinski, 43, of Burnhead Road, admitted placing his partner in a state of fear and alarm and committing a breach of the peace at their home on February 29.

Depute fiscal Sally Clark said the couple had both been drinking and there was an argument between them around 10.15pm.

She said Osinski was shouting and swearing at the woman.

"She was so alarmed, she ran from the house into the street, and police found her distressed, wearing just one slipper and in ordinary clothes, which were soaking wet.

"She was also drunk at the time," added Ms Clark.

Police found the accused asleep in his house and he made no reply to caution.

Defence lawyer Alison Marshall said her client and his partner were both Polish and had been celebrating "names' day" – similar to a birthday.

Miss Marshall said Osinski described both himself and his partner as "alcoholics.

"She was verbally abusing him too, and he retaliated," said Miss Marshall.

"She ran out of the house, and he went to sleep."

The solicitor said her client was seeking help with his alcohol misuse.

Sheriff Kevin Drummond fined Osinski £280, telling him:

"Your behaviour in the community is unacceptable.

"I am told that the police have been called to your home for domestic disturbances on 10 occasions since August 2005.

"In addition, you have accumulated three convictions for domestic assault and you now appear before me on a breach of the peace where alcohol is again involved."

He warned Osinski: "If you appear before me again, I will have to give serious consideration to a period in custody.

"This cannot continue, and if you can't stop it, then I can," he concluded.