A FARMER who kept a home-made pistol is facing five years behind bars after owning up to a string of gun and ammunition offences.

Burnley Crown Court heard how Paul Alton, 50, was found out in April, when he assaulted his wife of 15 years and she told police about firearms at the premises.

Alton on Monday admitted possessing a prohibited weapon — the .22 pistol. The offence carries a statutory sentence of five years in prison. The defendant, of Trice Barn Farm, Bacup, also pleaded guilty to assaulting Kim Alton, possessing a 12 gauge shotgun without a certificate and possessing ammunition — two .22 bulleted rifle cartridges- without a firearms certificate.

Alton further admitted possessing expanding ammunition — 74 .22 long rifle bulleted cartridges and having an article with a blade or point — a lock knife — on the M65.

The defendant denied a charge of threatening to kill his wife but will not be tried over the allegation.

Joe Boyd, for Alton, described the case as 'very unusual'.

He said the defendant had convictions from a very long time ago.

The judge remanded Alton in custody until September 26.