A British clay pigeon shooting team member who is due to compete in international competitions later this year has appeared in court on a firearms charge.
And a Judge at Warwick Crown Court was told that, whatever the outcome of the case, Isaac Watson may face having his shotgun licence revoked.
Watson, 66, of Kingston Fields Farm, Banbury Road, Lighthorne, pleaded not guilty at Warwick Crown Court
to possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.
It is alleged that on February 26 he fired his Browning automatic three-shot shotgun with intent to cause Lee Bennett to fear unlawful violence would be used against him.
The charge follows an alleged incident on Watson's land, and his barrister David Jones has told the court the issue in the case will be self-defence.
Mr Jones asked that certain dates should be avoided when fixing the trial date.
He pointed out that between June 2 and 9 Watson is representing Great Britain in the European clay pigeon shoots in Porto, and in the week beginning July 14 he is representing the team in the world championships in Bordeaux.
Prosecutor Francis Laird told the Judge: "The assistant chief constable may wait for the outcome of the trial before deciding to revoke his shotgun licence, although an application (to do so) can be made in any event."
Recorder Adrian Redgrave QC commented: "One wonders in that case whether it is necessary to have a jury trial."
But Mr Laird, who pointed out that the case involves the alleged discharge of three shots during the incident, added: "I anticipate the revocation will be contested."
The case was adjourned for trial, and Watson was granted unconditional bail.
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