A VAN driver was threatened with a gun as he drove through a caravan park in Park Street on Sunday.

The man was in his Transit van at about 2.15pm when the gunman stood in his path and pointed a handgun at him.

The driver did not stop and knocked the offender to the ground but he managed to get up and make his getaway in a silver Mini, with a registration number beginning 52 (2002).

Police scoured the area on Sunday afternoon, with a helicopter and 12 officers on the scene, looking for the gunman.

He is described as black, aged 35 to 40 of average build, with closely cropped black hair and a gold front tooth.

Sergeant Irfan Ishaq, investigating the incident, appealed for more witnesses to come forward, saying: "This incident took place in a busy caravan park, opposite the Park Street BP garage.

"We would like to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time, who may have been filling up their car at the petrol station or passing by.

"If you have any information at all about this incident or the offender's identity, please call police urgently.

"You can be assured your call will be dealt with in the strictest confidence."

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Central Area Crime Desk on 01707 638 102, quoting reference F3/06/1830.