A MAN shot five times after a number of cars pulled up outside his home is recovering in hospital tonight (Tuesday, August 19) as police continue a major investigation.

The 56-year-old was rushed to hospital with multiple gunshot wounds but his injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.

The shootings happened shortly after 2.30pm yesterday (Monday, August 15) outside a house in Brackendale Court, Station Town, near Wingate, east Durham.

A spokesman for Durham Police said it is believed the vehicles pulled up and the victim was shot as he stood in the front garden. He suffered multiple wounds to the lower part of his body.

Two men aged 24 and 27 from Wingate were arrested in Darlington later that day on suspicion of attempted murder and remain in custody, where they are being questioned by detectives.

It is understood the victim had parked his car shortly before the attack. One woman, who did not wish to be named, said her 17-year-old son had seen the drama unfold.

“He said he saw the man being shot and cars driving off with screeching tyres," she said. "He went over to the garden and the man was lying on the ground with people putting towels on him to try and stop the bleeding."

Police said no weapons had been recovered but further arrests are expected to be made.

Chief Inspector Andy Huddleston said “Our initial investigations lead us to believe the shooting was a planned and targeted attack.

"We do not believe there is a wider risk to the public at this time. An extensive investigation is very much ongoing and further arrests are likely.

"The man’s condition is described as serious, but not life-threatening and he will be undergoing surgery today.

"The investigation team will be conducting house-to-house inquiries, reviewing CCTV footage along with forensic examinations.

He added: “I would like to appeal to any members of the public who saw anyone acting suspiciously or vehicles travelling at speed in and around the Wingate area yesterday afternoon to contact us.

"Whilst this is shocking, incidents of this nature are thankfully rare in County Durham and our neighbourhood officers will be in the community today passing this message on.”

Anyone with information can contact police on 101.