Vicar admits gun charge

The case was adjourned to Manchester Crown Court

A Church of England vicar has pleaded guilty to keeping a handgun at his vicarage in Greater Manchester.

The Reverend Michael Daggett, 54, of the Church of Holy Rood, Swinton, admitted hiding a miniature silver Frontier Derringer in a grandfather clock.

During a court hearing on Wednesday, Mr Daggett pleaded guilty to one count of possessing an illegal firearm.

He denied a further charge of possessing an illegal cartridge designed to explode on impact.

Court date

Mr Daggett stood aided by a walking stick as he entered his pleas at Salford Magistrates Court.

He was charged under the Firearms Act of 1968 with keeping a firearm without the authority of the home secretary.

The case was adjourned for committal to Manchester Crown Court on 15 May where the charge of possessing an illegal cartridge will be heard.

Mr Daggett, who was released on bail, is currently suspended from his position.