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Armed police were called to a housing estate after a man suffered a bullet wound in a shooting.

The victim - who is in his 20s - is thought to have been shot in Godwin Road, Thanington, which remains closed off by police.

But he was actually found seriously injured a mile away, in Oxford Road, Wincheap, shortly before 10.40pm last night.

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Residents in Godwin Road say they heard a series of gunshots and the man suffered injuries to his stomach.

Paramedics alerted police after establishing he had a bullet wound.

Three ambulances were called to the scene, as well as the air ambulance, which landed on the Victoria Recreation Ground near the London Road Estate.

Forensic investigators outside a house in Godwin Road, Thanington (3181727)

But the helicopter was not needed and the victim was taken to hospital by road.

One witness said he saw two men in balaclavas arrive at nearby Alfred Road in a silver Audi with the windows blacked out.

He said he then heard a series of gunshots, which he initially thought was fireworks.

There is speculation it was a case of mistaken identity, and the victim was not the intended target.

Godwin Road, Thanington, remains cordoned off by police (3182581)

The Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate has now launched an investigation, with officers remaining at the scenes in Oxford Road and Godwin Road this morning.

Forensic investigators are in Thanington, where a house has been cordoned off.

Police have been seen searching wheelie bins along the road.

A spokesman says they are trying to establish the circumstances of the incident and the weapon involved.

Police searching wheelie bins in Godwin Road, Thanington (3182984)

This morning, neighbours spoke of their shock.

Dave Hoe said: "I live opposite and heard the shots. I have given all my info over to the police last night and this morning. It sounded like someone was hitting something with a stick."

A map showing where the drama unfolded (3182610)

Clare Cruise said: "I heard shots last night but thought 'no, I'm being dramatic'. Then thought 'ah, it's probably just teens messing about'. I hope the lad will be ok. This is terrible."

Anyone with information should call police on 01843 222289, quoting 19-1619, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.