Police are hunting a gunman after a young man was shot near a school yesterday evening.

Members of the public called 999 after they heard two shots ring out in Kale Road, Erith.

Armed police were quick to arrive on the scene outside the Harris Gerrard Academy, along with paramedics from the London Ambulance Service.

They found a man believed to be in his 20s had been shot and took him to hospital for treatment.

A spokesperson for London Ambulance Service said: “We were called at 9.48pm yesterday (25 May) to reports of an incident in the vicinity of Kale Road, Erith.

“We sent multiple resources to the scene, including ambulance crews and an advanced paramedic.

“We treated one patient at the scene and took them to a major trauma centre as a priority.”

The victim’s injuries are believed to be non-life threateneing.

Reports say there was a substantial police presence on the school grounds with evidence bags and first aid kits visible.

A secondary crime scene was later established around a block of flats in Kale Road.

Police say they are investigating the crime, but are yet to make any arrests.

A spokesperson for Metropolitan Police confirmed: “Police were called to reports of a firearm discharge in the vicinity of Kale Road, Erith.

“No arrests; enquiries into the circumstances continue.

“Anyone with information that could assist is asked to call 101 or tweet @MetCC and quote CAD8342/25May; you can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”