Scots mental health campaigner who 'repeatedly kicked' man in street dodges jail

A mental health campaigner who assaulted a man in the street after getting drunk at a Christening event was spared jail today.John Macdonald, 30, was told by a sheriff that it was "sheer luck" he didn't cause serious injury to his victim, Kevin Goldie, 20, whom he attacked at the end of a night out.CCTV of the incident in November last year (2021), played in court, showed Macdonald raining punches on Mr Goldie's head and repeatedly kicking the younger man on the body after he fell to the ground during the attack in Kerse Lane, Falkirk town centre.Muscular-looking Macdonald, described by his own solicitor as "a big lad", whose slick and professional "Healthy Distraction" podcast is available on Spotify and Apple, is then seen in the video to walk off in the company of three women.Falkirk Sheriff Court heard that the kicks "appeared to be delivered with some force" but luckily Mr Goldie only suffered what was called "a slight pain in the neck" as a result.Prosecutor James Moncrieff said the attack followed "a verbal altercation", though the defence claimed Macdonald had been spat at.Mr Moncrieff said: "A comment was made, and things escalated."Macdonald, single, a first offender, of Larbert, Stirlingshire, pleaded guilty to assault.Falkirk Live brings you the latest headlines from Falkirk and beyond.But did you know all the ways you can stay informed with us?We share live news and exclusive scoops every day so make sure you're following us so we can keep you informed on all things Falkirk!The incident happened on November 7th, 2021.Solicitor Murray Aitken, defending, said Macdonald had been at Christening and had been walking home in the company of female friends.He said: "They came across two youths, whom they didn't