A 13-YEAR-OLD was left needing hospital treatment after being shot with a 'pellet gun' in Salisbury.

The boy was walking along Castle Street with his mum and younger sister at about 4.35pm yesterday (Sunday, May 19) when he felt a pain above his right ear.

Police say his injury is consistent with being shot with a pellet gun.

The boy was not seriously hurt, but is being treated in Salisbury District Hospital today to have the pellet removed.

Detective Inspector Nicki Davey, from Salisbury CID, said: “It was incredibly fortunate that this boy was not more seriously injured, as the pellet could very easily have hit his eye or his neck.

“We are still in the early stages of our investigation, but have been carrying out detailed enquiries including viewing CCTV from the area.

“The boy was walking out of Salisbury, on the left side of Castle Road between the railway bridge and the underpass that leads to the Castle Street roundabout.

“This would have been busy at that time of day, so we want to hear from anyone who was walking or driving in the area and may have witnessed something suspicious. Perhaps you have dash cam footage or private CCTV which could assist?

“We would urge anyone with information to come forward.”

Inspector Pete Sparrow, from Wiltshire South Community Policing Team, said he understood that the incident would be alarming for local people.

He said: “This type of crime, where a young child has been injured in this way, is very rare, but will understandably cause concern for the community.

“I want to reassure you that our detectives are carrying out a thorough investigation, and our local community officers and PCSOs will be increasing patrols around the city to provide a visible policing presences.

“If you know anything about what happened or know who is responsible, then please come forward and speak to police.”

Anyone with information should contact Salisbury CID on 101, quoting crime reference 54190048015. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.