A SHARP shooting chef from Peebles has proved that he's not pasta his best when it comes to picking up a gun.

Francessco di Martino was a promising clay pigeon shot in his native Italy as a teenager.

But, after 23 years of running Franco's in Peebles with his wife Marrisa, he decided to return to the sport of his youth.

Franco quickly progressed from recreational level to international standard.

And last week he made his debut for Scotland in the Olympic Trap Home Countries International at the National Shooting Centre near Falkirk.

The weather was extremely unkind over the two days of competition with torrential showers, very strong winds and changing light conditions making the clay targets very challenging.

From lying in third position after day one, Scotland managed to gain a place to finish second overall to Team England.

Franco told us: "It was not my best score but everyone found it tough in the difficult conditions and compared to the others in the team I am still inexperienced at this level.

"After starting to shoot clays again only last January, I know I can improve.

"I was very proud to represent Scotland for the first time and to receive my silver medal and I hope I can be competitive again next year.”