A FARMER, who has been hit by the recession in agriculture, is aiming to boost his income by setting up a shooting range.

David Hodgson wants to reserve a 35 metre area for rifle and pistol marksmen in a disused limestone quarry at Hutton Hall Farm, Hutton Magna, near Barnard Castle.

He feels many enthusiasts who practise indoors will welcome a chance test their skills on targets in the open air.

Mr Hodgson, who grows wheat, barley and oilseed rape, as well as keeping 450 mule ewes, has applied to Teesdale District Council for planning consent for the range and an adjoining car park.

If the plan is approved he will also have to get permission from the National Rifle Association, which has to sanction all new ranges and clubs.

Mr Hodgson said yesterday: "Like many other farmers I've faced problems in the last few years and had to think of ways to secure an extra income. I think a shooting range will be the ideal answer.

"If it is allowed there will be strict controls, so there will be no danger to anyone and I'm sure the noise won't be a nuisance. We will be careful not to upset people living in the area."

Mr Hodgson is a member of the Darlington Rifle and Pistol Club, which uses an indoor range in the town's Neasham Road, but he and other members have to travel long distances to use outdoor facilities.

Council planning officer Andrew Bishop, who is dealing with the application, said: "This is one of the most unusual farm diversification schemes I've come across.

"I don't see any major problem with it, but will have to find out if there are any protests about noise or traffic from people in the area before making a recommendation."

Mr Hodgson said: "Farming has recovered a little in the past 12 months, but there are now doubts about future subsidies, so it is essential to think of other sources of income."