A GARDENER narrowly avoided being shot in the head by an air rifle while he was mowing his lawn.

Police are investigating the incident which happened in Whitmore Way in Basildon at around 3.30pm on Friday.

Officers were alerted to the incident by the man’s neighbour after he found approximately half a dozen shots in his pear tree.

It is believed the gunman was firing from the general direction of Great Spenders.

Essex Police are have put out a stern warning about the rules surrounding gun ownership and the discharge of weapons.

Investigating Officer, Pc Lisa Thompson, said: "It is a criminal offence to fire an air weapon beyond the boundary of your property.

“Section 23 of the Firearms Act 1968 explains this.

“On this occasion, this man had a lucky escape but I would not like to think of the consequences if he had been hit.”

Officers searched the nearby area but did not find anyone.

Anyone with information in connection with this air weapon discharge is urged to contact investigating officers at Basildon police station on 101.