I AM very concerned about the recent reports that swans are being shot with pellets from air rifles.

As we know from the death of a young child in Scotland, these weapons are lethal and I believe it is about time that they were licensed in the same way as shotguns.

When I was young I belonged to an airgun club and in those days you had to have a licence.

Airgun clubs are now rare and there is really no where to shoot except on private land, with permission, of course.

Could I ask readers to phone the police on 08457 444888 if they see anyone firing an airgun in a public place, or 999 if they feel a life is being threatened.

As well as inflicting serious injuries and even death to our wildlife there is also a strong possibility that someone could be killed by a stray pellet as in Scotland.

Could I also ask your readers who care about our wildlife to write to our MP urging him to instigate or support any proposals to introduce licensing for these lethal weapons. They are not toys.

You can write to Richard Taylor MP at House of Commons, London, SW1A OAA, and please send a copy to RSPCA Headquarters, Wilberforce Way, Southwater, Horsham, West Sussex RH13 9PS.

PAUL GITTINS

Lyttleton Road, Bewdley