Police have seized more than 400 guns — mainly antique — from an Oxford home.

Police searched Martin Young's house, off Headington Hill, in Headington, after his firearms certificates were revoked.

Inside the house, where he lives with his 97-year-old disabled mother, they seized 422 shotguns, 13 rifles and an assortment of other gun parts.

Mr Young was arrested on suspicion of possessing a prohibited firearm on Monday and was released on bail.

The retired firearms dealer said all the guns were collectable antique shotguns and rifles dating from the late 19th and early 20th century and not military weapons.

He said most of the guns were in full working order.

A solicitor acting on behalf of Mr Young said the man was a registered gun collector living in the belief his guns, gun parts and records were properly approved by Thames Valley Police.

Mr Young did not want to speak to the Oxford Mail last night, but after seeking legal advice issued the following statement. It read: "The man in question had been a firearms dealer and registered by Thames Valley Police for many years.

"When, following a recent domestic incident, it was decided his certificates should be temporarily revoked, the man readily agreed and he co-operated fully with police throughout the removal process.

"The guns were confined to the man's properly-registered address where he lives and where the man has long been the carer of his 97-year-old disabled mother."

When Mr Young's firearms certificates were revoked last Friday he was put up in a hotel while officers conducted a thorough search of his house over the weekend.

Mr Young was a firearms dealer for around 30 years, but recently retired and became a collector.

Five other properties owned by Mr Young in Iffley Road, Cowley Road, St Clements, Milvery Way and Old High Street, in Headington, were also searched on Monday, but no other weapons were found.

Supt Andy Murray, commander for Oxford, said: "A decision was made, from information and intelligence known to the police, that the owner was no longer a fit and suitable person to hold firearms.

"We will continue with our investigation as to whether there has been any illegal activity but I would like to reassure local people there is no suggestion at this time there is a threat to public safety."

Mr Young's home is in a private road off London Road behind Oxford Brookes University.

One neighbour, who asked not to be named, said: "Let's just say the weekend's events were a surprise for all of us."