A HAY-on-Wye man has been sentenced to five years in prison for buying illegal guns.

Laurence Golesworthy of Castle Street, Hay-on-Wye was sentenced at Minshull Street Crown Court in Manchester after pleading guilty to two counts of possessing a prohibited weapon.

Manchester police officers were led to 26-year-old Golesworthy as they investigated the sale of illegal weapons through an online auction site.

Golesworthy had bought a gun on the site and his home was raided on June 5, 2013 where officers discovered a telescopic sight for a rifle.

Police then searched his car where they found a handgun which appeared to be handmade, a submachine gun type weapon, and a self-loading pistol which had been converted at some point to fire live ammunition.

In addition, a fourth weapon was discovered alongside a ballistic vest and several rounds of blank ammunition.

The police investigation continued which led them to co-defendant, Matthew Ashton, aged 33 of Formby Road, Salford.

He was found guilty of possession of class A drugs (cocaine) with intent to supply, and pleaded guilty to possession of class A drugs (methylamphetamine), and three counts of possession of a prohibited weapon. He was sentenced to four and a half years in prison.

Detective Inspector Chris Mossop from the Organised Crime Coordination Unit said: "The guns purchased by these men were capable of discharging CS gas which in itself is an illegal weapon and can cause coughing, sneezing and a severe burning sensation if it comes into contact with eyes because of its irritant agent.

"However, what is more worrying is that the guns were readily convertible into live firing, lethal purpose firearms. That is to say the handguns could be adapted to allow bullets to be fired - having the potential to cause serious injury or death.

"Our operation led to a significant number of dangerous weapons being taken off the streets, and these men are now behind bars, but our work hasn't stopped and we continue to target those who are selling and keeping firearms illegally."