A MAN who shot himself in the head had an array of illegal firearms, an inquest heard.

Both the Burnley coroner and a senior police detective expressed ‘serious concerns’ about how David Read came to be in possession of a Enfield .38 revolver, a Beretta handgun and a rifle.

Mr Read, 65, was found dead at his home in Cleveland Gardens, Burnley, by his daughter Andrea on August 26 last year.

The cause of death was given as a single gunshot wound to the head.

He had acquired the guns after the death of his father-in law in 1987 and kept them at home ever since.

Mr Read’s father-in-law had been a member of a gun club and did have gun permits, however police found no evidence that the guns were legally held.

Det Insp Dave Groombridge, said that the fact that unlicensed firearms were present was of ‘grave concern’ to the police.

He added: “We agree wholeheardedly with the concerns expressed by the coroner.

“The number of firearms held by people who may have chanced upon them during house clearances or keeping them as collectables or heirlooms in unknown.

“Such weapons may not be intended for criminal activities their mere existence renders the holder extremely vulnerable and presents a danger to the public.

“This case has tragically highlighted the dangers inherent with illegal possession of firearms and I would urge anyone in possession of one to contact the police, primarily by telephone, and we will collect and safely dispose of it.”

Burnley Coroner Richard Taylor recorded verdict that Mr Read took his own life.