AN ex-convict, found to have a handgun and ammunition at his home, has been spared a trip back to jail.

Burnley Crown Court heard how Mohammed Khan, 26, was banned from having firearms for five years after his release from custody -- but told police the pistol was another man's.

Sentencing Khan, Judge Raymond Bennett said normally he would have been sent to prison for having the firearm but the defendant said the man had left it at his property despite the fact he had told him to take the weapon away.

Khan, of North Street, Burnley, admitted possessing a firearm and ammunition when prohibited and was given a 12 month community rehabilitation order.

He was ordered to attend the anger management group and comply with the instructions of the person in charge.

Peter Horgan, prosecuting, said the air pistol and ammunition were found when police went to the defendant's house.

Officers had gone there in relation to another matter not concerning Khan and fond the gas-powered pistol, 200 pellets and four gas cylinders.

Khan, who had left, returned shortly afterwards and told the police the weapon was not his as he was not allowed a gun.