A MAN in his 50s who was shot in Wigan yesterday afternoon, Thursday was the victim of a targeted attack, police believe.

The man was sitting in a parked Range Rover on Bickershaw Lane in Abram at around 4.20pm when a black Audi A3 pulled up alongside it.

A single shot was fired from a shotgun, injuring the man in the Range Rover in his arm and hand.

The black Audi A3 then left the scene.

The victim was taken to hospital with injuries which are described as "life-changing".

He is now in a "stable" condition.

Superintendent Chris Bridge, from GMP’s Wigan district said: “We believe the man was deliberately targeted but our investigations are at an early stage and we are keeping an open mind as to the motive for the shooting.

“This was an extremely reckless act which took place in broad daylight when children and other members of the public were nearby.

“We appreciate that incidents like this cause a lot of concern locally and we would like to reassure the public that extra patrols are in the area and if they have any concerns they should speak to an officer.

“Our priority is to find those responsible and we are appealing to anyone who witnessed what happened, has dash-cam footage or has information which could assist us to share it as soon as possible.”

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Officers say a black Audi A3 had been seen in the area about an hour before the shooting.

If you have any information contact police on 0161 856 7957, quoting log number 1,931 of September 19 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.