A Conservative councillor has admitted pointing an airgun at a neighbour during a row over a pet cat.

Nick Buckmaster, of Mount Echo Drive in Chingford, at Snaresbrook Crown Court today pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence towards Brett Stark.

The incident, attended by armed police, took place at 9:15am on January 18 outside Mr Stark's home in College Gardens, Chingford.

Buckmaster spoke only to confirm his name and enter a plea.

The Larkswood ward councillor since 2006 admitted to carrying the firearm and pointing it at Mr Stark who was standing behind the glass window of his front porch.

Prosecutor Rekha Kodikara told the court how Buckmaster visited the house to confront Mr Stark about his pet cat causing damage to his home, and was "persistent" about the issue.

Buckmaster is then recalled as saying "I know who you are. I know what you do. I know everything about you" before reaching for the gun and pointing at Mr Stark.

The incident then escalated further after Buckmaster had put the gun away and was "tackled" by Mr Stark in the front lawn.

Unless he resigns, he will remain a councillor up until the outcome of next month's local elections.

As part of his bail conditions, he is not allowed to return to the postcode area of E4, and has been staying at an address in Norfolk.

Buckmaster will be sentenced at Snaresbrook Crown Court on May 16.