OFFICERS will make unannounced security checks on shotgun and firearms certificate holders around Cheshire over the coming months.

The procedure is part of a three month campaign to ensure that all guns across the county are kept safe and secure.

Chief Inspector Sarah Edgar said: "A lost or stolen firearm could end up in the hands of criminals who would pose a clear threat to the public.

"As well as taking dip samples of registered certificate holders, we will be visiting people based on crime patterns within Cheshire to check that weapons are not easily accessible to criminals.”

Nationally over the last five years a total of 3296 licensed firearms and shotguns have been reported as stolen or lost.

However, the annual number lost or stolen has fallen from 553 in 2009 to 415 in 2013.

15 firearms were reported lost or stolen in Cheshire last year. The aim is to increase awareness of security and reduce that number.

Insp Edgar added: "The vast majority of shotgun and firearms certificate holders in Cheshire take the security of their guns very seriously and this is reflected in the relatively low number of firearms reported lost or stolen in the county.

“We want to ensure that this remains the case and the aim here is to raise awareness of security issues in order to protect people’s property and in so doing ensure the safety of the public of Cheshire.”

During the three month period, visits by Firearms Enquiry Officers will also be made to all gun clubs in Cheshire to alert them to the campaign and encourage their members to ensure weapons are stored securely.

Anyone who is found to be clearly not complying with security measures may face having their certificates revoked.

If you are concerned that guns are being kept insecurely, report it to Cheshire Police on 101.