A CORONER has raised concerns over the regulation of miniature rifle ranges after a man shot himself.

Emiel Ariel Malinski was known to go to Weir Mill in Mossley, an inquest into his death heard.

On November 2 last year, Mr Malinski, 29, attended the range with his air rifle.

Later in the day he was loaned a semi-automatic fire rifle, and was supplied with 50 rounds of ammunition.

While alone on the range, Mr Malinski turned the rifle on himself and fired a shot at his head, area coroner for Manchester South, Chris Morris reported.

He was taken to hospital but later died.

A doctor said Mr Malinski died from a traumatic brain injury due to the gunshot injury.

At his inquest, Mr Morris recorded a conclusion of suicide.

Following the hearing, the coroner completed a Report to Prevent Future Deaths document to raise concerns over the incident, which has been sent to Home Office Secretary Priti Patel.

Mr Morris wrote: "It is a matter of concern that the continued existence and operation of S11 (4) Firearms Act 1968 enables miniature rifle ranges to operate within only minimal regulation, with attendees able to fire miniature rifles and ammunition not exceeding .23 calibre and air weapons in a largely unregulated environment."

Mr Morris listed six other requirements which do not apply under the current rules.

In the letter to the Home Secretary he added: "In my opinion action should be taken to prevent future deaths and I believe you and your organisation have the power to take such action."

In response, the Home Office said it has "some of the toughest firearms regulations in the world" and it is "determined to ensure they stay this way to keep people safe".

A firearms safety consultation ran from November 24, 2020 to February 16 this year and contained several proposals on firearms safety, including in relation to tightening the controls on miniature rifle ranges.

A Home Office spokesman said: “This was a tragic and horrific incident and our thoughts are with the family of Mr Malinski.

“We continue to keep firearms law under review and have concluded a consultation on firearms safety – this includes proposals for new controls on miniature rifle ranges. We will publish a response to the consultation, setting out measures we intend to take forward to keep people safe.”