Shotgun found on open land by detectives investigating shooting

Officers have been searching a vast area of open land off Stannought Road in Skelmersdale as part of their inquiries into the shooting, which happened on September 6.

Emergency services were called to Ennerdale at 9.30pm to reports a gunshot had been heard and a man, in his 20s, was found at a nearby property with a wound to his leg which is believed to have come from a shotgun.

He was taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries, which were not thought to be life-threatening.

Last week three men – aged 20, 27 and 36 and all from Skelmersdale – were arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. They have all been released on bail until October 6.

Following a search of the area, police have confirmed that a shotgun has been recovered today. Police will remain in the area for the coming days.

Detectives are continuing to appeal for information and are asking anybody who witnessed the incident or knows who may be responsible to get in touch as soon as possible.

Det Ch Insp Zoe Russo, of Lancashire Police’s force major investigation team, said: “We appreciate this incident will have caused concern in the community but we would like to reassure people that our investigation is very much ongoing.

“The public will continue to see a police presence in the area as we carry out our enquiries.

“We are continuing to ask anybody with information about the incident to get in touch with us as soon as possible. Perhaps you were in the area and saw all or part of what happened, or perhaps you have heard something and believe you know who may be responsible.

“Whatever information you have we would urge you to get in touch with us.”

Anybody with information is asked to call police on 101, quoting log 1589 of September 6. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111 or at crimestoppers-uk.org.