Cyclist carrying 'republican gun'

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A veteran cyclist used his bike to transport a gun for "the republican movement", the High Court has heard.

Prosecutors said police found a loaded revolver after stopping 63-year-old Patrick McDaid last Thursday along a towpath outside Newry.

Mr McDaid, of Meadowbrook, Craigavon, who has been charged with having a firearm with intent to endanger life, was granted bail on Tuesday.

Suspected blank rounds were also allegedly found in a saddle bag.

The court heard how Mr McDaid told officers he was approached by an unknown man outside his County Armagh home.

A Crown counsel said he claimed he was asked by the man to cycle to the end of the towpath at Newry and collect a package from another man. He was to use the term library book as a means of identification.

'Grateful'

"The male stated that the republican movement would be very grateful for his help," said the Crown counsel.

"Police did not believe the account and are of the opinion that the applicant actively participated in the movement of the weapon using his bicycle as a cover."

The father-of-six, originally from County Donegal, was described as a "keen cyclist" who has membership of a local club.

A defence lawyer said Mr McDaid had given a "full account" during police interviews.

He was also restricted by the judge to cycling in an area of 15 miles around Craigavon.