A 16-year-old boy was in hospital last night after shooting himself with a gun he found on a Bradford housing estate.

Police cordoned off part of Lymington Drive, Holme Wood, following the incident in which the teenager suffered a foot injury yesterday morning.

It is understood he had found the loaded shotgun in a nearby garden.

Three men, aged 33, 20 and 21, were later arrested and remained in police custody for questioning last night.

Ward councillors spoke of their concern that a loaded weapon was present on the estate and appealed for people to help the police investigation.

Councillor Alan Wainwright (Lab, Tong) said: “Any incident with guns, as far as I’m concerned, raises very serious concerns.

“I understand the police have the situation under control and they are making inquiries.

“If I was aware of anybody who had a gun on Holme Wood, I would report them and I encourage residents to do the same.

“I don’t want to see guns on the streets anywhere in the country.”

Councillor Michael Johnson (Lab, Tong) said the news had “come as a shock”.

He said: “There is a perception of Holme Wood from some people that there are lots of problems. There are problems like anywhere else, but there is much of the community that is good.

“I am concerned but as far as I’m concerned this is an isolated incident. I have no evidence to say there is a problem with youth and guns and I hope I am right there. Young people and guns should not mix.”

John Holt was helping his daughter move out of the street yesterday, which he said was blighted by crime.

“It’s a dump,” he said. “If you’ve not got things bolted down they’ll be taken. My daughter doesn’t like it here. We’re moving her out.”

A West Yorkshire Police spokesman said last night: “Police were called at about 8.30am to Lymington Drive following reports that a 16-year-old male had received a self-inflicted shotgun wound to his foot.

“He was taken to hospital with injuries which are not believed to be life-threatening.

“Three local men aged 33, 20 and 21 were subsequently arrested in connection with the incident and inquiries remain ongoing.

“Neighbourhood Policing Team officers are patrolling the area to offer reassurance for local residents.”

  • Read the full story in Thursday's T&A