AN anti-gun campaigner is calling for stricter controls after a schizophrenic shot himself in the head.

An inquest in Sunderland heard that 52-year-old Eric Karlson took his life at the city's Mayfair Shooting Centre, in April, three months after being treated at Cherry Knowle Hospital for his condition.

Mr Karlson, of Wilfred Street, Millfield, Sunderland, became a member after having three gun training sessions with a qualified instructor, as required by Home Office guidelines.

After hearing that a post-mortem examination revealed Mr Karlson died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, Sunderland Coroner Derek Winter recorded a verdict of suicide.

The coroner told the inquest that police were satisfied the club had adhered to the current regulations on new members.

Campaigner Linda Michell, of Roker, Sunderland, whose son, Micah, was shot in the face with an air gun, said she would write to Home Office Minister Caroline Flint demanding the introduction of medical checks on people who apply to join gun clubs.

"This case shows why we need stricter controls on who can use guns," she said."In a short period of time, it was used with devastating consequences, not just for the family, but for anyone who was present at the time."