A man from Bicknacre who was found guilty of being in possession of a firearm and ammunition has been jailed for eight years.

Clifford Harvey, 55, of Priory Road, received eight years for possession of a firearm, six years concurrent for possession of ammunition without a certificate and four months concurrent for cultivating cannabis at Chelmsford Crown Court on Monday, July 9.

He was previously found guilty on Friday, June 15, following a five day trial at the same court.

On Tuesday, October 24, 2017, Essex Police executed a warrant at Harvey’s home after receiving information that he was in possession of a firearm and bullets.

While searching Harvey’s car police found a .38 Smith and Wesson Revolver and ammunition wrapped in a tea towel that was kept inside a food container.

Harvey’s DNA was later found on the trigger of the gun, however, he denied any knowledge of it.

After reviewing Harvey’s home CCTV, he was seen days before exiting his vehicle and carrying a plastic food container identical to the one officers found.

Police also discovered five cannabis plants growing in outbuilding at the property.

Investigating officer DC Andy Bagley said: “Harvey has continued to maintain that the weapon found in his vehicle with his DNA on wasn’t his. Despite the overwhelming forensic evidence, he opted to take the case to trial.

“This outcomes means a dangerous individual has been taken off our streets and a firearm and bullets have been seized ahead of destruction."