Armed Police Respond To Reports Of Shots Fired In Whitwell

A large police response – including armed officers – was sent to a rural area in Whitwell on Saturday morning after reports of shots being heard.

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary was called at around 11:20am following reports of shots striking trees on land off Southford Lane.

Officers, including Armed Response Vehicle units, attended the scene promptly.

Those responsible were quickly identified and spoken to. They were confirmed to be licensed firearm holders.

Police established that air rifles had been used on private land with the landowner’s permission.

Officers confirmed everything was in order and have since stood down from the scene.