A MAN shot in the back at a travellers’ site in Noak Hill last week is in a stable condition in hospital, police said.

The 33-year-old, who was allegedly attacked by another traveller at around 7pm last Wednesday at the enclave off Church Road, underwent emergency surgery.

His wounds have been described as “life-changing” by a police spokesman.

Residents at the site have refused to comment, but the episode has caused fear among travellers in neighbouring Berskins Road – an established camp in the area.

Charlie Clarke told the Recorder: “We want people to know this is nothing to do with us.

“These travellers live about half-a-mile from us. We are Christians and aren’t troublemakers.

“We’re shaken up by this. There are a lot of frightened people here.”

Trident police officers, who deal with inter-ethnic shootings, are still hunting the attacker.

The gunman is described as being around 30-years-old, white, and as wearing a blue T-shirt and black and white shorts.

He fled the scene by car.

It is thought he may have links to the Essex area, particularly Harlow.