West Mercia Police has issued advice to licensed shotgun owners in the region to prevent gun thefts and their use by criminals.

Gun owners have been advised to review their current security arrangements for the safe storage and movement of firearms.

They were told to keep weapons locked away when not being used, to lock windows and doors when out or in the garden and ensure alarm systems are maintained and serviced.

A spokesman said: "Gun safety would also be improved by not talking openly about owning firearms and being discrete about who was told because it reduced the chance of criminals finding out.

"Watching out for strangers viewing property or following them back from a place where the weapon may have been seen or used are seen as useful tools in deterring criminal activity.

"In addition, never leaving a vehicle unattended, while carrying firearms and securing the weapons to the vehicle chassis are seen to prevent opportunistic thieves and ensure public safety."

Police have also reminded residents to call 101 if they saw anything suspicious or 999 in the event of an emergency.