At 9pm on Sunday 9 May, police were called to a report that a man had been shot with a BB gun at an address on Long Ash Lane near to Wardon Hill.

The victim in his 20s was taken to hospital for treatment but his injuries are not believed to be serious.

Officers carried out searches of the nearby area, assisted by the NPAS helicopter.

Detective Inspector Tom Isaac, of Dorset Police, said: “I would like to reassure members of the public that a thorough investigation is underway into this incident to identify who was responsible.

“We are carrying out a number of enquiries and I would ask anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity in the area around the time of the offence, or who has any information that can assist our investigation, to please get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55210072842. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call freephone 0800 555 111.