POLICE are hunting a mystery marksman after three air rifle attacks, all in the same area.

In the first attack, the most serious so far, the victim was struck in the backside by a pellet as he mowed his lawn.

Barry Alder, of Iden Crescent, Staplehurst, did not require hospital treatment after the incident, but suffered painful bruising for several days.

The second incident came when contractor Max Gordon, was working on the roof of the property next to Mr Alder’s. A pellet zinged past, narrowly missing him.

He said: "I looked around, but couldn’t see anyone, so I carried on. Two hours later, another shot rang out."

Police were called and searched the area, but found no trace of the culprit.

Mr Gordon said: "Nothing like this has ever happened to me before. You do feel a bit vulnerable up on the roof, but I just had to carry on."

Mr Alder, 57, said he was very concerned.

"You just can’t understand how anyone could be so irresponsible," he said. "I wasn’t badly hurt, but a pellet in the eye could blind you for life.

"My grandchildren often come to stay and play in the garden. But I shall be very worried about letting them out there with this idiot about."

Anyone with information about the air gun incidents should call police on 01622 690055.