A MAN is in hospital after being found with gunshot wounds in a Southampton street.

Armed police descended on Vanguard Road last night after reports of a shooting.

Officers have cordoned off several blocks of flats in the area between Vanguard Road, Witts Hill and Lytham Road, including the Alpine News and Food store, in Townhill Park.

A police spokesman said the man had been shot in the Vanguard Road area, but confirmed this afternoon that his injuries were not life threatening.

Chief Inspector Stuart Murray confirmed this afternoon that a 25-year-old man, who was known to the victim but is not from the local area, was arrested in connection with the incident.

He was this evening being held in custody for questioning on suspicion of attempted murder.

Chief Inspector Murray said that the shooting was being treated as an isolated incident and reassured members of the public that there was no risk to the wider community.

He added: “We believe that the incident took place at Vanguard Road, Townhill Park at approximately 7.15pm.

“Although we have not formally spoken to the injured man, the information we have from our initial investigations suggests that the offender was known to him, but is not local to the area.

“The man suffered injuries to the lower part of his body, but is currently being treated for those injuries, which are not believed to be life-threatening.

“We would like to reassure members of the public that we are doing everything we possibly can to recover the firearm and remove it from the streets.”