After the atrocity in Plymouth on Thursday 12 August, the news that the gunman Jake Davison was granted a licence for a firearm and had it returned to him only a month ago, has shocked our entire community.

I used to work in the Keyham area where the attack took place - it's just round the corner and as a mother it's terrifying to think that on another day it could have been me or someone in my family that was shot and killed. 

We in the UK have one of the toughest gun laws in the world -  but it needs to be tougher. There should be absolutely no need for anyone to hold a firearms license who is living in a city or large town for personal use, and there should be stronger checks on those that say they need a firearm for legitimate work purposes like pest control, bird scaring or organised activity. 

The current legislation potentially allows virtually ANYONE to apply for a license, which opens up loopholes that a person can use to their advantage in order to obtain a lethal weapon. I.e there is scope for someone to lie about their 'good reason' to be able to own a firearm. 

You currently have to be 14 and above to get a firearms license - this should go up. 

If restrictions were increased, especially in heavily populated areas, it could significantly reduce the risk. It is time for this policy to be changed in order to protect our communities.