Gunman's life term challenge fails

A gunman who shot a police officer and killed his dog as he held his wounded ex-girlfriend hostage has been refused permission to challenge his life sentence.

Adam Wilmot, 38, of Park Road , Irthlingborough, was jailed for life in November 1998 at Oxford Crown Court.

He was convicted of possessing a firearm with intent to endanger ilfe, wounding with intent, destroying property, attempted wounding with intent and aggravated burglary.

He was sentenced to life under the "two strike" rule.

Bravery award

Twelve years earlier he had held another ex-girlfriend and her boyfriend hostage and fired a shot at a policeman who tried to intervene.

The Court of Appeal in London on Wednesday refused Willmott permission to challenge his sentence.

Judge Sir Richard Rougier, sitting with Lord Justice Mantell and Mr Justice Jack, ruled an appeal had no prospect of success.

He said a new medical report fell "far short" of showing that Willmott - a diabetic - was suffering form hypoglycaemia at the time of the crimes or that he did not pose a public danger.

The two Northamptonshire police officers who overpowered Willmott, Pc Ian Churms and DC Pat Harris, were awarded the Queen's Commendation for Bravery.

During the struggle Pc Churms was shot in the leg and his dog was killed.