Paisley OAP facing jail for taking gun to fight with neighbour

A pensioner faces five years in jail after a gun was found following a row with his neighbour.

James Campbell was held in February last year when a Derringer pistol was seized.

The 76 year-old had earlier had "a disagreement" with friend and neighbour William Green at the man's home in Paisley.

Police also discovered a tub of bullets in Campbell's bedside cabinet.

The first offender admitted at the High Court in Glasgow to possessing the gun and ammunition.

Campbell – a retired publican – was bailed pending sentencing next month.

The court heard how Campbell, his wife and Mr Green had been at the OAP's house.

Mr Green returned to his own home nearby around 11pm.

But, about an hour later, Mr Green suddenly found Campbell in his house.

Prosecutor Angela Gray said: "They had a disagreement which led to the police being called."

A charge alleged – which a not guilty plea was accepted for – that Campbell pushed and struggled with his friend to his injury.

Officers soon turned up at Mr Green's home and spotted a firearm lying in the kitchen.

Mr Green told police: "I didn't know who the gun belonged to – the guy next door might have brought it in."

Campbell's home was then searched and ammunition for the weapon was discovered in a tupperware dish.

The gun – which was found to be blood stained – had Campbell's DNA on it.

However, the pensioner made no comment about the weapon or the bullets.

The court heard the gun was a Derringer blank firing replica pistol.

It was described as being in "working order" and was capable of discharging bullets.

Campbell faces a minimum five year sentence.

But, his lawyer Louise Arrol said she will argue there are "exceptional circumstances" for Campbell.

She added: "My submission is this is a case where the court could consider an alternative to custody."

The hearing was also told Campbell suffered from a number of health issues.

Lord Arthurson deferred sentencing for reports.

But, he told Campbell: "You should read nothing into me continuing your bail."