Police have warned they have concerns over an airgun club near Kingswear which has been operating for the last 26 years without planning permission.

But club chairman Nick Jenkinson said there has never been a complaint about the club's activities since it was set up.

And he offered an open invitation to anyone to come and see what the club members get up at the old quarry site at Maypool.

The South Devon Airgun Club with some 25 members is currently applying for a certificate of lawfulness to continue operating at the remote site next to Higher Greenway Barn near Kingswear.

Neighbourhood beat officer PC Roger Hewett told councillors; 'I have been approached with concerns about the airgun club at Higher Greenway.

'I am making inquiries into the use of the area but it seems there are few controls on such clubs.

'I have concerns over the lack of signage, proximity to rights of way, types of weapons being used and recording of attendance.'

But he added: 'I think ultimately it will fall on the landowner to enforce any action.'

The club has applied to South Hams Council's planning department for the certificate detailing that it was original started in 1983 at Galmpton Creek but moved to the Maypool site in 1986.

The application points out that members only use low-powered air rifles that comply with UK law and do not require firearms certificates.

It also pointed out tthe club was prepared to put up signs with warning of 'airgun range beyond this point' or 'do not enter' on the boundary nearest to the farm and at the club assembly point.

Mr Jenkinson said concerns had been raised originally by a neighbour who thought the club was a rifle range but had since been reassured.

As a result the district council had asked the club to submit the application for the certificate of lawfulness.

He added: 'The first thing I would like to point out is that in the 25 years we have been there we have a 100 per cent safety record.'

He added: 'The club provides a very safe environment in a disused quarry where a father can teach his son how to use an air rifle safely. They can learn about air rifles with no need for them to shoot in a back garden. Nobody has ever complained before this.'

He added: 'If anyone wants to come and have a look to allay any concerns they are welcome.'

Mr Jenkinson said that anyone who wanted to take up his offer can contact him on 01803 842863.