Campaigners have blasted UK gun laws as "absurd" after it emerged that dozens of children in Hertfordshire can legally use the weapons.

At the end of March, 35 children aged under 18 in Hertfordshire held certificates granting them permission to use shotguns or firearms, according to Home Office data.

There are also two children under 13 who hold shotgun licences.

The Gun Control Network said allowing children to use powerful weapons such as shotguns is "absurd" and warned security cannot be guaranteed with youngsters.

However, the British Association of Shooting and Conservation (BASC) said teaching children how to enjoy the benefits of responsible shooting is to be encouraged.

There is no minimum age to hold a shotgun certificate in England and Wales, but a child must be over 14 to have a firearm certificate.

The figures show 31 shotgun and eight firearm certificates, granted by Hertfordshire Constabulary, are held by youngsters aged between 14 and 17 – some of whom could hold both types.

Overall there are 9,955 people in the county granted permission.

The law restricts children to the use of firearms for animal slaughter, sport, competition, target shooting and the shooting of vermin.

They cannot purchase their own weapons or ammunition but are entitled to possess some firearms from the age of 14.

And certificate holders under 15 are allowed to borrow shotguns for use under adult supervision but cannot be given a shotgun of their own until they reach 15.

Peter Squires, from the UK Gun Control Network, said: "The fact that children can be licensees is a ridiculous anomaly, given that children could never be legally responsible in their own right for the safety and security of the weapon.

"GCN believe firmly that the privilege to own and use a firearm should be tied very closely to the responsibility for its use and security.

"This cannot be assured with children."

Martin Parker, of the BASC, said current legislation benefits those in training for Olympic and Commonwealth shooting disciplines and those being taught pest control techniques.

He added: "Encouraging younger people to enjoy the benefits of responsible shooting, while teaching the principles of safety and self-discipline, is to be encouraged."

A Home Office spokesperson said the UK had some of the toughest gun laws in the world, with firearm possession subject to stringent controls.

He added: “There are strict controls on young certificate holders who must be thoroughly vetted by the police.’’