Three men have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after another man was shot in the leg.

Armed police officers were called to Burnley Road East, Waterfoot, after a man in his 30s suffered a gunshot wound to his leg at around 5.40pm.

The man was taken to hospital but his injuries are not thought to be life threatening.

Lancashire Telegraph:

At least six armed officers were sent to the scene, as well as the police's dog unit.

A 23-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, along with a 32-year-old man and a 40-year-old man who were arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and cannabis cultivation.

They remain in custody.

Lancashire Telegraph:

Police said all parties were known to each other and there was no threat to the wider public.

Detective inspector Simon Upton said:"A man has suffered what we believe is a gunshot wound and we are taking this extremely seriously.

"At this point we don't believe there to be any wider threat.

"However officers will remain in the area to provide reassurance to the community.

"We are now asking for anyone with information that can help us with enquiries to get in touch as soon as possible.

"Maybe you were in the area and saw all or part of the incident, or something that looked suspicious, please get in touch as soon as possible."

Lancashire Telegraph:

There were more than six police vehicles at the scene and the road was closed.

However the road has been reopened and police are still guarding the crime scene.

One witness said: "We saw the armed police line up and then they went into the building together.

"They had rifles.

"It's scary to think what has happened for them to be carrying weapons.

"I do hope everyone is okay."

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 and quote 1124 of May 14.