A Good Samaritan who talked a man out of ending his life at a Perth bridge has been praised by a sheriff.
Philip Crank was persuaded not to take his own life by a passing member of the Christian Ministry.
Crank was subsequently arrested for having two craft knives in a public place and the drama was recounted as he stood in the dock at Perth Sheriff Court.
Sheriff David Young told Crank: “I think it is worth expressing my admiration for the unnamed person who came and spoke to you on the bridge and I’m sure you would share that sentiment.
“Clearly, these are tragic circumstances that have brought you here today and we are all thankful that you are here today. I would encourage you to seek help.”
Crank, 49, of High Street, Perth, admitted having two craft knives in his possession on Tay Street on March 26, and was placed on community payback for two years.
Depute fiscal Stuart Richardson previously said: “He is experiencing marital difficulties and that is affecting the way he is thinking about things. Police received calls from various parties to say he was expressing suicidal thoughts.”
The Samaritans can be contacted by anyone in distress on 08457 909090 or by email at jo@samaritans.org.