The home of a Southport businessman was targeted by gunfire for the second time at the weekend.

Merseyside Police officers were called to John Ball’s Selworthy Road house in Birkdale at around 11.40pm on Saturday (June 6), following reports of shots being fired.

No one was injured in the incident, which took place in one of the borough’s most affluent areas.

The house is close to the prestigious Royal Birkdale golf club and the homes of former Liverpool FC stars Alan Hansen and Kenny Dalglish.

Worried residents told The Champion: "People around here are very worried about what's been happening in this area recently."

Detectives believe the incident was a targeted attack, although a police statement said it was too early to say if the shooting is linked to other recent incidents in Sefton.

Throughout this year a string of properties linked to Mr Ball and local businessman Terry Riley, who owns Formby’s Shorrocks Hill Country Club, have been at the centre of shootings and suspected arson attacks.

Crime scene investigators have carried out forensic examinations following Saturday night’s attack, and house-to-house enquiries have been conducted.

High visibility patrols have been stepped up in the area to provide reassurance to the public.

Police are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information relating to it to call the gun crime hotline on 0800 458 1211, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

By Natasha Young