Seven years in jail for drunken gunfire

A husband who collected antique guns and shot at his own house in Walsall after downing a bottle of vodka has been jailed for seven years.

Brad Cartlidge's wife returned to their home in Coalway Road, Bloxwich, in February to find a scene of mayhem. The 53-year-old former engineer had fired three shots, smashing a window and a basin.

His wife also found water pouring in from a burst pipe, Wolverhampton Crown Court was told yesterday.

Firefighters were called and she originally thought there had been a break-in, said Sati Ajula, prosecuting.

Cartlidge had a lifelong interest in military memorabilia and was a collector of de-activated firearms and antique military items.

Ms Ajula said bullets were found around his home, including the bathroom, after he drank a bottle of vodka.

Police were also called and a number of pistols and rifles were discovered, including a Belgian revolver and a Western and Harrington revolver.

Miss Ajula told the court that sufficient work had been carried out to make the weapons unlawful, and three shots had been fired.

Cartlidge, who has been diagnosed as bipolar and needs regular medication, admitted eight offences of possessing prohibited weapons and ammunition without a certificate.

Andrew Davidson, defending, said Cartlidge had a morbid interest in military memorabilia and "wanted to make things complete for himself".

He said his client had an engineering background and knew his actions were incredibly stupid.

Mr Davidson said Cartlidge had been in a low mood and consumed alcohol and no danger was created to others.

Judge Anjad Nawaz said Cartlidge had the knowledge and capability to convert and modify firearms and manufacture ammunition. He said it was fortunate a gas pipe had not been struck.

Although it was serious case no-one had been physically injured.

He jailed Cartlidge for seven years and ordered forfeiture and destruction of the firearms.