POLICE are continuing their hunt for a gunman who blasted his victim on both legs in a shooting attack in Lanarkshire.

The 21-year-old victim, named locally as Ryan Chalmers, is being treated in hospital following the incident in a lane in Coatbridge.

He was targeted in a walkway between Agnew Avenue and Deedes Street, behind the Horseshoe Bar, at 6.45pm on Tuesday.

As reported in later editions of yesterday's Evening Times, the man, who was found seriously injured in the lane, was rushed to nearby Monklands Hospital.

He is being treated for wounds thought to be in the thigh area of both legs and police say he is 'stable'.

Officers, including specialist forensic teams, have launched a detailed investigation to try to trace the gunman.

He is described as in his early 20s with short, dark hair and was wearing dark clothing.

Officers say that after shooting his victim he escaped in a dark saloon car, driven by another man, in the direction of Airdrie.

The entrance to the lane was yesterday cordoned off and officers gathered on quiet residential street Agnew Avenue.

Around a dozen officers in forensic suits could be seen combing the walkway and undergrowth for evidence.

Detective Inspector John Lamb said: "I know this incident will be concerning for many local residents. However I want to reassure them that this type of incident is rare and our inquiries so far lead us to believe this was a targeted attack."

He added: "I would appeal to people in the area to contact police with any information.

Police Scotland say there is no risk to the public. However, additional officers will be patrolling the area.

linzi.watson @eveningtimes.co.uk