A MAN and woman have been jailed for carrying illegal guns and ammunition without a licence in Reading.

Sadie Barlow, 22 of Callington Road, Whitley was found guilty of one count of possession of a firearm without a certificate and one count of possession of ammunition without a certificate.

At the same trial, Robbie Kirby, 28 of Gairn Close in Tilehurst pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a prohibited firearm and one count of possession of ammunition when prohibited.

Police officers were called to a house in Callington Road on May 7 2018, after a bag was found in Barlow's room that contained a firearm and ammunition.

It was found that the bag was given to Barlow by Kirby the previous night.

They were both charged by Thames Valley Police on January 1, 2019.

Following a three day trial at Reading Crown Court, the pair were found guilty by a unanimous jury on Thursday, July 11.

Barlow was sentenced to two years and six months in prison and Kirby was sentenced to five years and four months imprisonment.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Peter Cave, of Force CID, based at Reading police station, said: “These sentences highlight how seriously the police, CPS and the courts take unlicensed firearms.

“Thames Valley Police will always investigate seriously and thoroughly any reports of firearms offences.

“If you have any information relating to people carrying weapons in our communities, please come forward and report it to us on 101. If you wish to remain anonymous, reports can also be made to the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.”