AN AIR gun pellet which hospitalised a 13-year-old boy was "not aimed" at him and took "a number of deflections" before the incident, police say.

It comes after the teen was hit in the ear by the projectile whilst walking along Castle Street with his mother and younger sister on May 19.

The incident, which occurred at around 4.35pm, left the boy needing hospital treatment to have the pellet removed.

Now, Wiltshire Police has confirmed that the person responsible has been identified and is helping the force with "enquiries".

Officers say a "thorough review of the circumstances" has concluded that it was not a deliberate assault.

They add that the shot was "not aimed" in the direction of the victim and the pellet took "a number of deflections" in order to strike him.

DS Jonathan Davies Bateman said: "Any criminal charges require a reckless or deliberate act and we are satisfied that this was not the case, and the incident has been concluded as accidental. Nevertheless an air weapon has been voluntarily surrendered to police.

"I am happy to report that the victim has no lasting, or significant injuries and is recovering well. I wish to take this opportunity however to remind any persons of their responsibilities in the use of air weapons, which should comply, not only with current legislation, but sensible use."

Inspector Pete Sparrow highlighted the dangers of using an air rifle in a public place.

He added: "We now know that this was not a deliberate act but this case clearly shows how dangerous air rifles can be, it was very lucky that the victim wasn't seriously injured.

"Air rifles are not toys and should not be treated as such, they have potential to cause very serious injuries and anyone using them should ensure that they comply with the law at all times. Under the Firearms Act those prosecuted can face a imprisonment."