Local police have renewed their warnings over the misuse of imitation toy guns this week.

The guns, which fire small plastic pellets, have a very close resemblance to real firearms and are on general sale at certain shops in Tenby town centre.

"Police officers are put in a difficult position when dealing with incidents involving these toy guns because of their close resemblance to real firearms," explained Wyn Evans, inspector at the town's police station.

"We have had a few incidents over the past couple of years when these imitation weapons have been used, and more recently about two weeks ago a member of the public reported youths firing one such weapon from a passing vehicle," the officer pointed out.

"There is concern for public safety and the police appeal to local shopkeepers to take a responsible attitude when selling such items.

"We would like to warn people of the dangers of using these toys and ideally, the sale of imitation guns should be discouraged," he stressed.