A 13-year-old was undergoing surgery after being shot in Didcot town centre last night (August 19).

Craig Claridge's injuries were not believed to be life-threatening after the shooting at the junction of Edinburgh Drive and King Alfred Drive, shortly after 10.30pm.

A police spokesman said two men aged 18 and 20 had been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and were helping police with inquiries. One of the men was also arrested for possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life.

The shooting happened behind a Co-op, a popular meeting point for children. Neighbours reported hearing a loud bang, which sounded like a shotgun, although police today refused to comment on the weapon used.

They also refused to confirm reports that it was a 'drive-by' shooting.

Craig was taken to hospital by ambulance suffering gunshot wounds. His condition was today described as 'stable'.

At his home in Dirac Place, Didcot, Craig's father, David, said: "My son will undergo surgery at the John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, today. At the moment, we expect he will be in hospital for some time."

Craig, a pupil at St Birinus Boys' School, is said to be "outgoing" with lots of friends.

Mr Claridge refused to speculate about the motive for the shooting.

He said the family were "naturally shocked" after receiving a phone call from one of Craig's friends to say he had been shot.

Mr Claridge, 36, said: "I immediately went to the scene where Craig was given first aid before being taken to hospital. He was being supported by some of his friends."

Craig's mother remained with her son in hospital until the early hours. Mr Claridge said Craig was conscious and talking.

His father said Craig played for Hagbourne Football Club and was also a keen off-road motorcyclist.

The junction of Edinburgh Drive and King Alfred Drive was still sealed off today by scenes-of-crime officers and detectives.

It is well known as a meeting spot for teenagers who disrupt householders in Edinburgh Drive and King Alfred Drive with rowdy behaviour and fighting.

Resident Rex Thatcher said: "They congregate on a wall at the back of the Co-op, especially at weekends. There is swearing and they make a terrible noise -- out the front garden walls are regularly kicked over.

"Last night I heard a lot of screaming when the shooting apparently happened.

"I saw people rushing around and there may have been about 30 young people milling around.

"Three or four police vans arrived and the boy was being treated on the ground before he was taken to hospital."

Some neighbours claim drug dealers frequently use the area, but police would not comment.

Noel McNamee, of Edinburgh Drive, said: "I had just gone to bed when I heard the noise from the kids outside -- and I heard a loud bang and screaming. I did not realise what had happened until this morning."

Peter Kearsley, 77, also of Edinburgh Drive, also heard what sounded like a shotgun.

He said: "There was a bang and lots of screaming. It is a shock to think there was a shooting there."

Anyone with information should call Didcot CID on 08458 555555.