A 71-YEAR-OLD man from Fittleworth has been jailed for eight years after shooting another man in the leg.

Police were called to an address in Fairmead Close, Fittleworth near Pulborough at around 6.40pm on Saturday, October 31 2015 to a report of an argument between the two.

The 61-year-old victim was treated by paramedics at the scene for a gunshot wound to the leg and taken to hospital. He was discharged a few weeks later.

Brian Acott, 71, retired, of Fairmead Close, Fittleworth was arrested and subsequently charged with wounding with intent, possessing a firearm when prohibited for life and possessing a prohibited weapon.

Acott pleaded guilty to possessing a prohibited weapon and Section 20 assault.

He was jailed at Chichester Crown Court on Friday.

Speaking afterwards Detective Constable Ceri Spratt said: "This was an unusually violent incident to happen in a quiet, rural community.

"I am pleased with the sentence imposed and hope that it will in some way help the victim following what was undoubtedly an incredibly traumatic experience.”