POLICE in Tyneside, hunting suspected gunman Raoul Moat, have thrown a two-mile exclusion zone around a picturesque village.

Householders in rural Rothbury have been told to stay indoors while the on-going police operation continues, although no details have yet been revealed.

A murder investigation began on Saturday when Moat's ex-girlfriend, Samantha Stobbart, 22, was injured and her boyfriend, Chris Brown, 29, shot dead in Birtley, Gateshead.

A police officer was also shot in nearby Newcastle the following day, after which Northumbria Police announced the 38-year-old as the prime suspect.

Armed officers from Northumbria and neighbouring forces have been working together on the major operation, and are looking at possible links with an armed robbery at a fish and chip shop in Seaton Deleval yesterday.

Moat, who was releaed from Durham Prison on Thursday after serving an 18-week term for assault, is said to have been using a black Lexus vehicle, loaned to him by a friend.

It is now being suggested that the vehicle has been found.

• More news to follow.