A COMMUNITY has been left "terrified" after a woman was shot and seriously injured in Southampton.

Residents have spoke of their fear following the shooting at a premises on Cuckmere Lane, Redbridge on Monday night.

Police retrieved a sawn-off shotgun from the scene and the victim was treated at Southampton General Hospital, where her injuries are said to be serious, but not believed to be life-threatening.

Armed police were seen by residents rushing into a block of flats in the area before standing down.

Residents were yesterday left in shock after hearing about the shooting in the nearby flats.

One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "It's terrifying to think this has happened in this area.

"As a parent living here it is really concerning. There have been problems with drug dealers in the area before but nothing like this."

Another added: "I saw loads of police cars as I was walking back and couldn’t believe how many were there. It's a worry for people here."

"I hope they find whoever did this and that the girl is safe and well," a resident of Kendal Avenue told the Daily Echo.

"This is really sad. What has the world come too. We have had too many incidents like this in the area lately. Something has to be done."

Others spoke of how the area is normally "quiet" and unassuming.

Locals described seeing an armed response team.

A spokesperson for South Central Ambulance Service said: "The woman was not seriously injured and after treatment at the scene from staff we sent in a rapid response vehicle and an ambulance she was then taken to University Hospital Southampton for further treatment.

"We were called by another person at the property reporting the injury at 6.14pm."

A 31-year-old man from Southampton has been arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. He remains in police custody at this time.

Anyone with information about this incident should call 101 quoting 44180315791.