Police have revealed they are to hold top level talks with community leaders about how to tackle gun crime in Bradford.

Urgent action is planned to reduce firearms offences in the district, after a series of incidents so far this year.

Yesterday, a 22-year-old woman escaped injury after a shotgun was fired at a window and door of a house in Holme Wood Road, Holme Wood.

West Yorkshire Police recently revealed 175 firearms incidents were logged in the district last year. But the figure included hoax calls, loud bangs from fireworks and unsubstantiated allegations. Armed officers attended on 121 occasions, a reduction on the previous two years.

Bradford West MP George Galloway has called for a meeting to tackle the issue of gun-related crime in the city.

The divisional commander for Bradford South Police, Chief Superintendent Simon Atkin, said: “We welcome any opportunity to meet with partner organisations, and the communities of Bradford, in looking to further reduce gun-related incidents in the city.”

Yesterday’s shooting happened at 3.30am. Two men were seen in the garden of a house, before leaving the scene in a 4x4 vehicle. Police attended and found damage to a door and window consistent with a shotgun discharge. No-one was injured, but a woman was inside the home at the time.

Superintendent Angela Williams said yesterday: “Firearms remain a priority issue for the police in Bradford and I am extremely aware of the damaging impact such incidents can have on a community.

“The majority are targeted offences and involve a criminal minority. By working together, I am confident that we can identify those involved and effectively address the problem.

“Our resources are fully focused upon tackling gun crime and the driving factors behind it.

“We are already planning a meeting with partner organisations and community leaders to develop a concerted response to the issue. This will be multi-layered in that it will involve education and diversion, as well as enforcement.

Supt Williams added: “This work also relies on information and support from the public who have a key role to play in eliminating this behaviour.

“I would call on anyone who can assist detectives in their investigations to contact us immediately. Likewise, if you are aware of those who keep firearms in your neighbourhood, let us know in confidence and we will take action.

“Local officers will be patrolling the Holme Wood area, responding to any concerns from residents.”