POLICE are urging shooting enthusiasts to take the greatest care when out following their hobby.

Their warning follows two accidental shootings in North Yorkshire on successive days.

The first occurred during an organised shoot on January 21 at Strensall, near York, when a group of five men were shooting.

A 46-year-old local man was struck in the face by a number of pellets. He was treated at York Hospital for minor injuries before being released.

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

Although there is no suggestion that any offences were committed, in both cases the guns have been seized by the police while officers investigate the exact circumstances.

Head of firearms’ licensing Dave Coutts 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."

A spokesman for 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.”

For information on shotgun safety visit basc.org.uk