A MAN has been arrested after two brothers were shot near their home in broad daylight.

Both men needed treatment by paramedics after being shot with what police suspect was a highpowered ball-bearing gun in Thornley, near Peterlee.

The brothers, aged 28 and 26, were shot in Ruskin Crescent, at about 4pm on Sunday, near to their home.

The younger man suffered bruising to his arm and his brother a leg wound.

A red Rover car and a silver 4x4 vehicle belonging to the family were damaged in the incident.

A 42-year-old local man was arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. He was also detained on suspicion of violent disorder, in relation to an incident in the village the previous weekend, and was last night being questioned at Peterlee police station.

Police say they are looking for a number of other people in connection with the earlier incident.

Officers from the community beat team have been conducting house-to-house enquiries.

Detective Sergeant Paul D'eath said: "At this stage we have not recovered a weapon, but from the injuries caused we believe the firearm was probably a high-powered ball-bearing type gun.

"This incident has caused some concern in the area as it happened in broad daylight on a Sunday afternoon, when there were a lot of people around.

"I can understand there may be a reluctance to come forward and pass on information, but I would reassure people that if they are willing to help us there are steps we can take to offer them a level of protection."

Anyone with information is asked to contact the police on 0845-60-60-365 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.