POLICE are appealing for help after a 15-year-old youth was injured after he was shot in the shoulder by an unknown assailant with an air rifle.

The teenager was attacked as he walked with his friend near to the Frog and Ferret pub, on Coulson Street, in Spennymoor.

He suffered bruising and the air rifle pellet left a lump on his shoulder in the incident which was at about 2.30pm on Sunday. (December 28)

PC Pete Aiston, of Bishop Auckland police, said: “The victim and his friend had noticed three men who were dressed in camouflage jackets and carrying a black air rifle earlier during their walk.

“We would like to trace these individuals and are appealing to anyone who can help us to get in touch.

“Thankfully the victim’s injuries were not serious. He was left with a small lump and a bruise to his shoulder but it could have been much worse.”

He added: “I’d also like to take this opportunity to remind people who use air rifles that it is their responsibility to ensure it is safe to shoot before pulling the trigger.

“There is comprehensive guidance about the use of firearms on the Durham Police website. I would advise people to familiarise themselves with this before taking their weapon out.”

Anyone with information about this incident should contact PC Aiston by calling Durham Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555111.