Gun family's 'terrifying ordeal'

About 60 police officers are involved in the investigation

A city businessman who was pistol whipped and shot on his doorstep during a jewellery robbery is lucky to be alive, his family has said.

Colin Pester, 61, was shot at point blank range at his home in Lancaster Gardens, Plymouth, Devon, on 30 April.

Four men arrested in connection with the attack have been release on bail.

In a statement, Mr Pester's family said they had been through a terrifying ordeal and their lives would never be the same again.

Mr Pester was moved from Derriford Hospital last week to a unknown location, but his family said he would need further surgery.

His injuries are causing him severe pain and mental anguish Pester family statement

A statement from the family said: "Colin is at a location where he is receiving specialist care for the very serious injuries he has sustained during this attack.

"He is lucky to have survived. He is conscious but his recovery is going to be a very slow process and will involve more surgeries.

"His injuries are causing him severe pain and mental anguish."

The family said the attackers were dangerous and appealed for anyone with information to contact the police.

Rolex watches

Detectives investigating the shooting have asked for information about a car believed to have been used in the attack, a silver Renault Clio which was found burned out after the shooting.

It had been stolen in a previous burglary and its registration number changed.

Two men were seen running across a footbridge into Duncombe Avenue, Plymouth, on the night of the shooting, at about the time the car was set alight.

One of the men is described as about 6ft 3ins and carrying a rucksack. The other man who was shorter and wore a dark vest.

Neighbours say the Pesters' home has been broken into before

During the attack valuable jewellery was stolen, including two gold Rolex watches and a number of ladies' rings.

Mr Pester runs Automart Car Sales in the Mutley area of Plymouth.

Neighbours say the home he shares with his wife, son and daughter has been broken into on a number of occasions.

Of the four men arrested, three have been bailed until 7 July. A 25-year-old man has been bailed until 16 June.

About 60 police officers are working on the investigation.