Ramblers walking in woods around Cullingworth say they are having to dive for cover from wayward clay pigeons.

One walker claims to have been hit by falling debris from a clay pigeon while walking along a path beside Manywells Wood on the edge of the village.

The subject was raised at last week's parish council meeting by chairman John Brigg. He told fellow parish councillors he had been contacted by angry ramblers who claim to have been hit by falling clay-pigeon debris.

Bradford councillor Margaret Eaton, who represents the village at City Hall, was present at the meeting. She has asked police and council officers to investigate ramblers' claims that they are in danger from plastic targets.

Cllr Eaton says: "I am very concerned about reports that at least one person has been hit by part of a clay pigeon while walking on the path.

"Bits of the clay and spent cartridges have been found on the bridleway which indicates that the clay pigeons are falling on the path, which is used by families with young children.

"Public footpaths should be 100 per cent safe for the public to use."

Members of the Flying Black Nine Orpo club, who shoot on private land next to the public bridleway, deny that the club is to blame.

Club spokesman Leslie Smith says that members always shoot away from the direction of the path to ensure the public are not at risk.

And he says that members of the public are welcome to visit the club anytime.

Cll Brigg says: "At the meeting Margaret Eaton said she would take the issue up on our behalf.

"If there is a danger to any horse riders or walkers then the parish council may become involved."

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