A HUSBAND and wife have appeared before a judge accused of illegally possessing a firearm.

Appearing in the dock before Judge Philip Parry at Burnley Crown Court wearing a white top and pink skirt 41-year-old Mary Louise Smith spoke only to confirm her name.

Her husband Thomas Henry Smith, also 41, appeared over a video link from Preston Prison and also spoke only to confirm his name and confirm that he could hear clearly what was being said.

The couple, of Meadow Street, Great Harwood, are both accused of illegally possessing a sawn off shotgun in the town on June 6. Neither were arraigned on the request of their barristers and the case has been adjourned until July 17 while the defence await an expert report.

On that occasion they will appear at Preston Crown Court in front of Judge Nicholas Barker. A provisional trial date has been set for November 19.