A young paperboy was shot at by a youth with an air rifle in Galleywood on Thursday evening causing a red welt on his side.
Police say one of two older youths, aged about 15, brandishing the air-weapon approached within ten feet of the 13-year-old boy and fired a single pellet in the alleyway adjoining Noakes Avenue and Bells Chase.
The assailant is described as white, about five feet five tall with blue eyes and black curtain style hair. He wore black trousers and black Kicker trainers.
Inspector Kevin Wakefield said: It is illegal to carry or fire such weapons in a public place. This was an exceedingly dangerous thing to do and the boy was lucky not to have been hurt."
Anybody who can help police is asked to call Eric Turnball on 01245 491212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111
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