Man who went viral after dress 'broke the internet' admits brutal attack on woman

Johnston, now of Moffat in Dumfriesshire, had been on bail, but he was remanded in custody by Lady Drummond pending sentencing next month.

Prosecutor Chris Macintosh told how it was accepted his victim had suffered previous violence - including the accused trying to strangle her - before the attack libelled in court.

Mr Macintosh said: "There is no permanent police presence on the island and she was in a situation where she felt trapped."

Days before the assault, the woman had gone to the mainland for a job - but Johnston had not wanted her to.

In the hours prior to him turning on her, Johnston had been drinking at a pub quiz, where he sent a string of texts to the victim.

When they later met, the attack took place.

Mr Macintosh added: "He followed her and pinned her to the ground. He placed both knees on her arms, so she was unable to move.

"He then began strangling her with both his hands.

"She was initially able to scream. She feared for her life and believed Johnston intended to kill her. He was very forceful."

A witness heard the screams and tried to pull Johnston away.

He initially stopped and went back inside - but stormed back out and again choked her.

Johnston was seen clutching a knife and the court was told his victim managed to "keep her distance" as she believed he would stab her, before dialling 999. The harrowing call was played in court.

A witness also raced to get her help and she was discovered "crying and hyperventilating". She was so upset she could only partially explain her ordeal.

Johnston meantime was found hiding under a desk in his cottage still clutching the knife. He briefly put the blade to his throat at one stage, but the weapon was grabbed from him.

The high court was told the woman suffered bruising and marks to her neck as a result of the assault, but needed no medical treatment.

The court heard Johnston later "alluded to previous episodes of violence" when talking to a doctor. He also described bouts of "emotional distress" since he was a child.

Mr Guarino said Johnston had always accepted responsibility for the assault and urged Lady Drummond to continue bail for the first offender.

But, the judge told him: "I have no need to tell you that this is a serious and violent offence.

"You repeatedly strangled her, injured her and put her life in danger in what must have been absolutely terrifying circumstances for her.

"I am afraid, Mr Johnston, that your status has now changed, you have been convicted of a very serious crime and you will be remanded meantime."