A man is facing a possible life sentence after admitting possessing explosive substances.

Michael Pym-Nixson came to the attention of police after paramedics visited his flat in Kingston Upon Thames, south-west London, and treated his hand for burn injuries on the night of March 19.

After raiding the 54-year-old’s home, counter-terrorism officers discovered ingredients used to make Armstrong’s mixture – a sensitive primary explosive – and black powder on March 22.

On Wednesday, Pym-Nixson pleaded guilty at Southwark Crown Court to two counts of possessing explosive substances contrary to Section 4 of the Explosive Substances Act 1883.

Prosecuting counsel Thomas Payne said: “There is a history of mental health problems and drug abuse which impacts on the picture.”

Pym-Nixson, of St George’s Road, Kingston Upon Thames, was remanded into custody for sentencing on December 10, facing a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, Mr Payne told the court.

Judge Gregory Perrins ordered a pre-sentence report, adding: “I am not going to sentence you today, I would like to know a little bit more about you.

“You will come back in five weeks’ time. You understand a custodial sentence is inevitable, but you will find out on that day how long it will be.”