A 64-year-old man has appeared in court on firearms charges after weapons and ammunition were seized from his home.

Leslie Anker, of Watson Street, Mill Hill, Blackburn, is charged with possession of a .22 Rimfire revolver, ammunition and possessing guns with a rifled barrel without a firearms certificate.

He was sent to Preston Crown Court where he is already facing firearms charges which are due to be heard on June 25.

Michael Blacklidge, defending, said his client maintained the items seized by police were in the house the last time they searched the premises, which led to charges already before the crown court.

On that occasion police recovered a loaded Walther PK. Following an application by Mr Blacklidge, the magistrates granted bail but prosecutor Philippa White lodged an immediate appeal against the decision and Anker will remain in custody until the appeal is heard by a judge.