A MAN who has admitted possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence is still to face a trial.

Peter Gallagher, of Emerton Walk, Park South, had the air weapon when he confronted youngsters who had been taunting him on May 10.

But the 41-year-old insists he only ever had the rifle at his side during the incident and did not fire it, Swindon Crown Court was told.

Lynne Henderson, prosecuting, said one witness spoke of hearing the gun being fired three times. The woman also said she saw Gallagher raise the weapon to his shoulder during the confrontation.

Chris Smyth, defending, said “It is Mr Gallagher’s case that while he accepts, as a result of the taunts he received from youngsters, he got the air weapon and approached them with intent to frighten them.

“He denies taking the weapon from his side and taking aim. One witness describes hearing three bangs and describes seeing the weapon raised and pointed.”

Miss Henderson said it could not be established whether the gun was loaded as the witness only said she heard it being discharged. She said it was possible the woman heard it fired without a pellet in it.

Judge Douglas Field adjourned the case to have a trial of issue to decide the truth of what happened, as it would make a material difference to the sentence. Gallagher was remanded in custody until then.