A MAN caught in possession of an air weapon in a public place has appeared in court.

Dean Mark Hopkins, 31, of Shirley Close, Highcliffe admitted being in possession of the unloaded weapon in Barrack Road,Christchurch on February 21 when he appeared before Poole magistrates.

He was given a 28-day prison sentence, suspended for six months, and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £128.