Darren James admits explosives and firearms charges
A Nottingham man has admitted possessing explosives and firearms, which led to a major evacuation.
Darren Adam James, 26, of Bancroft Street, was arrested after chemical substances were found at a flat in Central Avenue, Mapperley, in October.
Primary school children and 60 residents were evacuated before a controlled explosion was carried out.
Mr Justice Flaux, at Nottingham Crown Court, warned James he could expect a sentence "well in excess" of 10 years.
'No intent here'
James admitted making an explosive substance for no legal purpose, possessing a shotgun and two high-powered air rifles and possession of prohibited ammunition.
Steven Gosnell, for James, told the court that his client was "a loner and an eccentric".
"There was no intent here, no plan for the nitroglycerine to be used in any particular way," Mr Gosnell said.
Mr Justice Flaux told James: "There can be no doubt that this is a case which will lead to a very substantial term of imprisonment.
"You are going to be going to prison for a very long time."
The court heard James had stolen axes, knives and camping equipment from a store in Middlesex last June.
He also admitted burglary and was found guilty of handling stolen goods and converting criminal property.
James has been remanded in custody for psychiatric reports before sentencing at Nottingham Crown Court on 30 March.