COUNCILLORS are calling for tighter controls on air guns after a teenager lost an eye when she was shot.

Nicola Diston, 15, of Gateshead, was hit in the left eye by a pellet fired by a gang of yobs who ran off laughing.

Now, Gateshead Borough Council is calling on the Government to toughen legislation on air weapons, to ensure they do not get into the wrong hands.

The council also hopes that people in the borough will back it by signing a petition, which is being opened today.

The approach to the Government was agreed at a full meeting of the Labour-run authority last Friday.

The council's deputy leader, Councillor Mick Henry, said: "The tragic case of the young girl in Gateshead who was partially blinded demonstrates that air guns are just as dangerous as other firearms.

"Gateshead council felt very strongly that tougher laws should be introduced to make it harder for people to get hold of, and keep possession of, air guns.

"These weapons are capable of injuring people just as much as any other firearm and therefore should be regulated as stringently."

People will be able to sign the petition at Gateshead Civic Centre, Regent Street, from today. It will also be available at libraries throughout the borough from tomorrow.