A VULNERABLE man who failed to disclose that he was taking anti-depressants when he applied to get his shot gun licence renewed has been fined.

Allan Black, of High Road, Whitletts, Ayr admitted knowingly making a false statement to secure the renewal in February, 23 this year.

The 58-year-old appeared before Sheriff John Montgomery at Ayr Sheriff Court last week. The court heard how Black has been suffering depression since the death of his wife.

Speaking on his behalf, defence solicitor Quinton Muir said: "He has been depressed since the untimely death of his wife. He has held a shot gun since he was 17.

"The social work came and removed the shot gun. He accepts that it is of public interest that he is suffering from this. It is safe to say he is suffering with a mental disability.

"He will never get back the registered shot gun certificate he held. That is something that has vexed him. He is able to meet a financial penalty."

Addressing the dock Sheriff Montgomery said: "The questions on the application are there for a very good reason. It is about you coming into possession with a shot gun.

"It is significant that you have no previous convictions as it means I can deal with you by a monetary penalty."

Black has been fined £300 and will pay £10 per fortnight from Tuesday, October 18.