Pistol Ban ‘May Hit Olympic Chances’

A ban on a popular starting pistol could damage the nation’s hopes at the 2012 Olympic Games, it was claimed yesterday.UK Athletics firearms licensing manager David Brown said outlawing the Olympic .380 BBM was the equivalent of seizing whistles from football referees.

The former Greater Manchester Police officer said amateur clubs, schools and race meetings have been brought to a “virtual standstill”.

Mr Brown said: “The implications for our major Olympic sport in the lead-up to 2012 should not be underestimated.

“The guns are the only thing that give a dual signal, a flash and smoke, to the athletes in front of you and the timekeepers.-[source]