A NORTHWICH man has admitted to possessing an airgun.

Robert McNally, 43, is to be sentenced after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm, namely a 'Walther CP88' pistol, and causing criminal damage to a police vehicle.

Armed officers were seen surrounding his home on Burgess Place on July 8 after concerns were raised for a man’s safety.

Cheshire Police later confirmed that bullets were discharged, although no serious injuries were reported.

McNally was taken into custody as police seized the aforementioned firearm.

A cordon remained in place overnight, with officers discovering a ‘suspicious package' at the property at around 1.15pm the following day.

Neighbouring properties were evacuated as a precaution as bomb disposal officers worked to ensure the package was harmless.

Bomb disposal officers were called after a 'suspicious package' was foundBomb disposal officers were called after a 'suspicious package' was found (Image: Supplied)

Previously in court, it had been heard that McNally has 'longstanding issues with mental illness'.

Judge Steven Everett adjourned the case so a psychiatric assessment could be made to determine whether he was fit to enter a plea.

On Friday (October 25), McNally returned to Chester Crown Court.

Matthew Dunford, defending, explained that while the report confirmed ‘serious mental health difficulties’, his client was fit to plea.

The indictment was amended to possession of a firearm, as opposed to the previously stated ‘imitation firearm’, and McNally pleaded guilty.

Judge Everett adjourned the case until December 5 to allow for a pre-sentence report to be prepared.