North Yorkshire Police are urging shooting enthusiasts to take care.

The advice follows two accidental shootings at organised shoots in the county in the past week.

In one, a 46-year-old man was struck in the face by a number of pellets and, in the second, another 46-year-old man was hit in the leg.

Dave Coutts, head of firearms’ licensing, said: “Thankfully, neither of the people was seriously harmed. However, the consequences could have been far more serious.

“Shooters need to make sure that they are aware of what is happening around them and that their guns are never pointed in anyone else’s direction. It is also essential that when the gun is not being fired the safety catch is on to prevent accidental discharge.”

Debbie Collins, of the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC), said: “Safety must be the first consideration for anyone taking part in shooting. Accidents are thankfully very rare, which is a testament to the safety-consciousness of every safe and responsible shooter.”

For information, visit basc.org.uk.