BASC’s Fighting Fund forces police U-turn

Swift and decisive action, supported by BASC’s Fighting Fund, secured the return of a shotgun certificate for one of the association’s members.

The BASC member had been revoked as a result of a dispute between members of his family and their neighbours. BASC was of the opinion that the member had only peripheral involvement in the dispute and his revocation was disproportionate; the result of ‘collateral damage’.

The member’s certificate was reinstated by Sussex Police following intervention by BASC, which made clear that the association would vigorously contest the revocation and seek legal costs if the case went to appeal, supported by our Fighting Fund. BASC’s discussions with the constabulary prompted a review of the evidence, following which the member had his licence returned to him.

In response to the decision, BASC’s director of firearms, Bill Harriman, said: “I am delighted that this member had their certificate returned, albeit that it should never have been revoked in the first place. After BASC intimated to the police that it would give the member Fighting Fund support to appeal the decision and ask for costs if successful, Sussex Police reconsidered the matter. 

“This case shows clear evidence of flawed decision making which is to nobody’s benefit. BASC will be pursuing this further through the Police and Crime Commissioner.”