³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ

A camper has been cleared by a jury of attempted murder after a shooting at Britain's highest pub.

Richard Bowser was accused of trying to kill a man at the Tan Hill Inn in North Yorkshire on 21 July last year.

Bowser, 46 and of Bishop Auckland, was found not guilty of two counts of attempted murder, but convicted of two charges of possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life, as well as one charge of wounding with intent.

Police said Bowser's actions were "abhorrent".

A trial at Teesside Crown Court had heard how Bowser had lost his temper when his card was declined as he tried to pay for drinks at the remote Swaledale venue, where he was staying with his wife.

After a fight broke out, the court was told Bowser had pointed a gun at the head of another guest and pulled the trigger, but the weapon failed to fire.

When the guest fled to a nearby room, Bowser managed to fire four bullets through the door, hitting the victim in the chest and arm in the process.

Mr Bowser had previously pleaded guilty to assaulting three people and possession of a firearm.

He will be sentenced on January 24.

Det Supt Fran Naughton, of North Yorkshire Police, said: “The actions of Bowser that night were absolutely abhorrent and are likely to have a lasting effect on the victim and those who witnessed this horrendous ordeal.

“The other people caught up in this incident were innocently working or enjoying a summer’s evening out with family and friends. No-one should be subjected to fear and violence like they were that evening."

Police also praised "brave and quick-thinking members of staff" for ensuring the safety of their customers and supporting the criminal investigation.