A man sparked a firearm alert, leading to the deployment of armed police in Carlisle.

Officers and a dog handler were sent to Denton Holme.

An area around Denton Street and Graham Street was said to have been cordoned off for a time.

As a result, 27-year-old Adrian Skowron was charged with possessing an imitation firearm - a BB gun - with intent to cause fear of violence.

Skowron, of East Dale Street, Carlisle, pleaded guilty to that charge during a brief appearance at the city's crown court.

It emerged he had "brandished" the weapon and "pointed it at people", although Judge Peter Davies heard there was some background to the incident, which happened just after 9pm on December 3 last year.

The case was adjourned for sentence until June 20, and Skowron - a man of previous good character - was granted bail.

But Judge Davies told him all sentencing options, including a prison term, would be open on that date.