Concerned residents have described their shock after a man was shot with a shotgun in a ‘targeted attack’ just days after Christmas.

Police have attempted to reassure members of the public by saying there is no threat to the community after a man in his early thirties was injured by a shotgun in Hithercroft Road, but terrified residents are now worried about the safety of their neighbourhood after the attack.

The incident, which happened just two days after Christmas at around 5.30pm, left the victim needing medical attention, but his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

A concerned mother, who lives close to the scene and did not wish to be named, said the attack had shocked her family and made her doubt the safety of the ‘peaceful’ area.  

She said: “We went out for a walk on Sunday evening and saw police cars around the area and police tape and wondered what had gone on. It is awful to think that this has happened.

“It is such a peaceful and quiet area around here. It is scary because it so close to home and I am quite surprised that something like that would happen around here.

“We have lived here two years and nothing serious has ever happened. We chose this area because it was lovely and peaceful and now we are not so sure.”

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Hithercroft Road, Downley.

A resident who lives opposite the row of houses where the incident is believed to have taken place, said she was away in Birmingham when it happened, but returned home to see police cars everywhere.

She said: “It is quite scary. It is usually quite a friendly neighbourhood to live in.

“I have lived here for about a year and a half after moving from Green Street and we have never heard of anything like this happening around here, it is a bit shocking.”

A property in Hithercroft Road, set back from the main road near to Tinkers Wood Road, was taped off and a scene watch was in place, but it has now been lifted.

A manhunt is continuing after investigations began last night into the shooting.

No one has yet been arrested and the weapon is not believed to have been recovered.

Senior Investigating Officer, Det Insp Brendan Murray, based at Aylesbury police station, said: “I would like to reassure the public that this attack appears to have been targeted against an individual and does not represent a threat to the community of Downley or the surrounding areas.

“However, in light of this officers have been in the area conducting enquiries and seeking to reassure local residents.

“I would ask anyone with information regarding this incident to contact the Thames Valley Police Enquiry centre on 101”.

To give information anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.