Two youths suspected of firing an airgun from the window of a car being driven around villages near Shrewsbury were arrested after a three-car smash.Worried residents in Pontesbury and Minsterley called police last night reporting that ball bearings were being fired from a small red car.

Police carried out a search of the area but initially found nothing. Officers were then alerted to a car accident in Horsebridge Road, just outside Minsterley, involving three vehicles, one of which left the scene.

Two youths who were passengers in one of the cars were arrested on suspicion of firearms offences in connection with the earlier alleged incidents.

The pair were today being interviewed at Shrewsbury Police Station.

Police initially received calls between 7pm and 8pm.

They were then informed of the crash at about 8pm. The vehicles involved were a red Renault Clio, a green Hyundai Getz and what is believed to be a blue Peugeot 106, which had left the scene when officers arrived.

Nobody was injured in the crash.

Two passengers from the Clio, both males in their late teens, were arrested on suspicion of firearms offences.

Constable Mike Dulson, local policing officer for the area, today appealed for anyone who witnessed anything which may be connected with the alleged airgun incidents to contact him.

“I am keen to hear from anyone who might have seen a small red hatchback car in the Minsterley and Pontesbury areas yesterday evening or who has any other information which might help our investigation,” he said.

“Any witnesses can contact me at Pontesbury Police Station on 08457 444888.”

Pontesbury parish councillor Nick Hignett said there were often young people driving around the village in the evenings. He added that he would be surprised if youths had been able to get hold of weapons.

“You shouldn’t be able to get them so easily without some sort of checks being carried out,” he said.

Anyone with any information can also contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

By Rhea Parsons