POLICE want to reassure the public that the shooting of a dog walker in West Park was a targeted attack, stressing that "this is a very rare incident to happen in St Helens”.

A 24-year-old man is currently recovering in hospital after being shot in the hip around 8pm on Wednesday, December 5 while walking his dog on Gladstone Street. 

He managed to return home and was taken to hospital where it was established that he had been shot with a firearm.

He underwent surgery overnight and is currently recovering in hospital.

His condition is described as non-life threatening.

Detective Inspector Steve Ball, of St Helens CID, said: "We are happy that this incident was a targeted attack and not random, so we want to reassure people that this is a very rare incident to happen in St Helens.

"These incidents do happen from time to time but they are not an everyday occurrence and anyone with any information on any other offences then we appeal for them to get in touch with us straight away and take it very, very seriously.

"We are actively looking for any information and witnesses who were in the vicinity of Gladstone Street and saw or heard anything to call us on 101 quoting case number 919.

"There will also be heightened presence in the area this week and over the weekend to reassure the public."