TERRIFIED Park North residents were woken by the sound of gunshots on Tuesday evening.

An incident took place in Banwell Avenue and involved a car being badly damaged after several shots were fired.

The attack occurred shortly after 10pm and police have now launched an investigation to find those involved.

The type of gun used in the incident is not yet known but it caused significant damage to an Audi A4.

Eyewitnesses at the scene reported hearing two separate shots, possibly from a shotgun.

Two men were then seen running from the crime scene towards Axbridge Close.

Several response vehicles arrived shortly after the shooting but no-one was arrested.

At around lunchtime yesterday officers once again descended on Banwell Avenue to speak with locals and hunt for evidence. Residents were unable to access the road for several hours.

Locals living nearby spoke of their shock at the incident and described how it has left them fearing for their safety.

One resident, who did not want to be named, said: “I had just put my little one to bed when I heard these loud bangs.

“I’ve never heard a gunshot before in my life so I thought it was a car backfiring or something. When I spoke with a friend they said it was a gunshot. It’s really scary.

“I’ve only just moved here and it’s not what you expect at all. It makes going out at night quite worrying.

“Imagine walking along at night and then hearing something like that. It’s good to see the police here and I just hope they catch whoever it was as soon as possible.”

Police have launched an appeal for witnesses to come forward so they can help catch the perpetrators.

A Wiltshire Police spokesman said: “We are looking for witnesses following an incident of criminal damage.

“Wiltshire Police dispatched several units to the area but the offenders were not located.

“Anyone with information is asked to contact Wiltshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously.”