Welby farm shooting couple Andy and Tracey Ferrie 'humbled' Published duration 6 September 2012

image caption Andy and Tracey Ferrie said the past few days had been "difficult beyond belief"

A couple who used a gun to defend themselves during a burglary at their farm say they are "grateful and humbled" by support they have received.

Andy and Tracey Ferrie, from Welby, Leicestershire, said the past few days had been "difficult beyond belief".

The decision not to press charges against them was welcomed by their MP.

Rutland and Melton MP Alan Duncan said he was delighted the Crown Prosecution Service had decided not take criminal action against Mr and Mrs Ferrie.

Mr Ferrie, 35, and his 43-year-old wife were woken late on Saturday night by banging and the sound of breaking glass.

Police were called to the house at 00:26 BST on Sunday. Mr Ferrie told them he had fired at the group who had then left.

The couple were arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm after the legally-owned shotgun was fired.

Mr Duncan said the real crime would have been if the couple were prosecuted for defending their home.

After the announcement, he said: "I stuck my neck out in defence of my constituents on Monday.

"I'm delighted the CPS has seen sense and has exonerated them. The law has worked and so has the system.

"My constituents can hold their heads high."

image caption Neighbours such as Mr Dallas have been very supportive of the couple's actions

William Dallas, who lives near the Ferries' farm, said he was pleased the couple would not face any action.

He said: You can't break into folks' houses, especially in the wilds, in the middle of the night. You're just asking for it."

Two men have appeared at Loughborough Magistrates' Court charged with burglary.

Daniel Mansell, 33, from Leicester, pleaded guilty to the offence on Wednesday and was remanded in custody to be sentenced at Leicester Crown Court on 25 September.