Police act after two men are shot by accident in North Yorkshire

In the first incident, last Saturday, a 46-year-old man was hit in the face by during an organised shoot on Woodhouse Lane, Strensall.

He was treated at York District Hospital for minor injuries before being released.

In the second incident, the following day, a 46-year-old man from Rotherham was hit in the leg on land at a farm in the Selby area. He suffered superficial injuries which were treated at Doncaster hospital.

Police have seized the guns involved while they investigate the shootings, although they say no offences have been committed.

Dave Coutts, head of firearms licensing at North Yorkshire Police, said: “Thankfully, neither of the people injured in these incidents 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, 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.”