A MAN is behind bars after claiming he found a shotgun while out walking his dog.

Jason Strachan had the weapon after apparently making the discovery in woods near his home in Kilwinning.

Officers found a haul of firearms at his flat including the shotgun, air rifles and grenades.

Strachan now faces a minimum five years in jail after he pled guilty at the High Court in Glasgow to possessing the weapons.

He was remanded in custody pending sentencing next month.

Officers raided Strachan's flat and went on to find firearms including the shotgun in his loft.

As well as the shotgun and ammunition, police seized four air rifles and grenades used by the British armed forces.

The court heard claims the shotgun had been discovered in woods beside Strachan's home.

His lawyer Laura Reilly said: “He was out walking his dog...the pet was out snuffling around and found a carrier bag.

“An item was found that was a gun. Curiosity got the better of Mr Strachan and he took the item home. He put it in his loft.”

Lord Beckett deferred sentencing for reports.