POLICE are taking steps to calm nerves in Grangetown, Middlesbrough, after an alleged firearms incident at the weekend.

Officers were called to a house in Lealholm Walk at about 2.15am on Sunday after reports of a disturbance.

Two men are believed to have made off from the address pursued by a male occupant from the house. They got into a red Ford Fiesta and the man was struck by the car before it was driven from the scene, travelling along Birchington Avenue in the direction of Fabian Road. Detective Sergeant Lew Matthews said: "I want to reassure people that incidents of violence are treated very seriously, and this particular incident seems to have been aimed at a specific address, rather than at general members of the public.

"We would like to hear from anyone who has any information about this incident or who witnessed either the events at Lealholm Walk/Birchington Avenue junction."

A vehicle matching the description of the red car was seen entering the drive of a house in the St Andrews Road West area.

Police, including armed officers, attended and nine men were arrested on suspicion of firearms offences and attempted murder.

Det Sgt Matthews said: "The car may have had a badly damaged tyre and would have travelled for some distance on the metal rim, which could well have attracted attention at that time of the morning."

The man from the house in Lealholm Walk went to hospital for injuries to his leg and feet, before he was discharged.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call police on 01642-302626 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.

* Andrew Bywater, 19, from the Grangetown area, appeared before Teesside magistrates yesterday charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent, affray, dangerous driving and a firearms offence. He was remanded in custody until next Tuesday.

Eight men aged 16 to 30 were bailed pending inquiries.