Police hunt for doorstep shooters

The 61-year-old was shot in the stomach when he opened his door

Police are continuing their hunt for two men after a man was shot on his doorstep on Wednesday night.

The 61-year-old man is in a critical condition after being shot at point-blank range by two men on the doorstep of his Plymouth home.

Emergency services, including armed response officers, were called to the property at Lancaster Gardens in Whitleigh at 1825 BST.

Devon police are set to continue door-to-door inquiries and searches.

A major manhunt was launched by police and the force helicopter was deployed.

Paramedics treated the businessman for a shotgun wound to his stomach and facial injuries, before taking him to Derriford Hospital.

They're a very nice family... I'm shocked this should happen here Terry Luscombe, neighbour

The victim runs a car dealership in the Mutley area of Plymouth and neighbours said the home he shares with his wife, son and daughter, had been broken into on a number of occasions.

It is believed the man was pistol whipped before being shot.

Police believe the attackers escaped in a silver Renault Clio.

And they are trying to establish if a burned-out car found in the Weston Mill area shortly after the shooting was that vehicle.

An appeal has been made for witnesses, but police have warned the public not to approach anyone suspicious.

'Out of character'

Sgt Russ Phillips said it was being treated as a very serious incident.

"It's completely out of character for this area of the city and for the city in general," he said.

Neighbour Terry Luscombe said he was shocked to discover how badly injured the victim was.

"He's a very nice gentleman - a local car salesman who's very well known in Plymouth," he told BBC News.

"They're a very nice family. I'm shocked this should happen here."