Disabled people are encouraged to try the airguns at the open day

Members of the Welsh Airgun Association (WAA) have invited AMs and MPs as well as the public to the event at Wrexham.

Visitors will be able to try out air rifles and air pistols as part of the exercise to win hearts and minds.

The Sports Council for Wales has recognised the need for an Olympic standard range for air gun, air rifle, and small bore rifle shooting.

Robert Blake, WAA Chairman said the open day at Plas Madoc Leisure Centre on Saturday was to show "why the sport has a place in our society".

He said: "At a time when the sport of shooting has to combat the insidious publicity of illegal guns, we would like to dispel any worries the public and our political representatives may have about our sport.

"This event will give us an opportunity to educate our politicians and give the public a chance to try our sport.

"Wales has a good track record in shooting but we need new blood to ensure that the success continues."

Commonwealth Games medal winners are expected to be on hand to explain how their sport works.

National range

Wrexham council disability officers are also due to be present to ensure that disabled people can try the weapons.

On Sunday, the association hosts the North Wales Airgun Championships.

In a report in January, Culture Minister Alun Pugh said the sports council had recognised a need for a national Welsh shooting range.

The report stated: "It remains for the governing body (the Welsh Target Shooting Federation) to identify a suitable location and provide a properly costed proposal to the Sports Council for consideration for Sportlot funding."