The victim, who was shot in the abdomen in the Rathfriland Road area last night (Friday), has been taken to hospital and remains in a serious condition. A man in his 40s has been arrested.

“I utterly condemn this sickening attack, as will any right-thinking individual,” said Mr Tennyson.

“My thoughts are with the victim of this terrible incident, who I hope makes a full recovery from his injuries.

“The local community in Banbridge has been left shocked by this shooting. Those behind it certainly do not represent anyone in the town or indeed further afield. There is no place for guns on our streets and the culprits need taken off our streets.

“I appeal to anyone with information on this incident to contact police with it immediately.”