A TOP Scots private school plans to axe its historic shooting range amid fears members of external rifle clubs, who have not been checked by the school's procedures, are bringing ammunition onto campus.

Governors at George Heriot's School in Edinburgh plan to close the range, which dates back to 1914.

Stewart Mackenzie, the captain of the Former Pupils' Rifle Club, said: "Surely it is not right to close a custom-built range and end 99 years of club shooting without any discussion?"

Heriot's Principal Gareth Doodes said the governors had taken the decision "in light of the school's need for space, which is at a premium, and the child protection concerns that members of external rifle clubs, who have not been checked through the school's procedures, are at present bringing ammunition onto the campus".