GANGS of children armed with airguns are terrorising shoppers at Malvern Retail Park.

Police have received reports of youngsters hiding in the wooded area between the retail park and Worcester Road and firing the weapons at cars and pedestrians.

Officers attended on Monday evening after a passing lorry driver reported hearing an airgun being fired.

Police have stepped up their monitoring of the area following numerous reports of nuisance and anti-social behaviour.

Sgt Robert Werner-de-Sondberg said the matter was being taken very seriously and the inappropriate use of airguns would not be tolerated.

"We're actively seeking to identify groups of young people behaving anti-socially in the area," he said. "This extremely dangerous practice has to stop. We urge local residents and shoppers in the area to be vigilant in reporting all such suspicions to the police immediately they arise."

The gangs have also been causing problems for customers and staff at Morrisons supermarket.

Morrisons spokesman Gary Bolton said the store was working with the police to resolve the problem.

"Security at our stores is of paramount importance and we have an excellent relationship with the local police force," he said.

"On the occasions we've felt it necessary to contact them regarding this issue, they have been most co-operative. We will continue to work with them in the future to combat any anti-social behaviour in the area."

Anyone with information or concerns should call PC Roger Pullin on 08457 444888.