A 23-year-old woman was shot in the beer garden of The Vernon in Vernon Road, Old Basford.

She was still in hospital last night, while people in the area said they were stunned by what had happened.

Neighbourhood watch co-ordinator Iris Busley said: "It is frightening to think this kind of thing can happen. I heard some police activity in the area at the time and was told the next day there had been a shooting. I didn't believe it. It is shocking."

The woman was at a friend's 21st birthday party when the shooting happened at around 9.30pm on Friday.

Susan Davis, who also lives near The Vernon, said: "It is scary that this can happen so close to where you live. People will be in so much fear they won't want to leave their homes."

Alan Salmon, 33, of Vernon Avenue, said: "It has caused a lot of fear. You wouldn't think it would happen."

A 23-year-old man arrested in connection with the incident was last night bailed by police pending further inquiries.

The incident comes after a series of other shootings in nearby areas earlier this year.

Between March 23 and April 30, there were five shootings within a square mile of Forest Recreation Ground.

Among these was the fatal shooting of Malakai McKenzie, 19, in the car park of the Hubb pub, in Hucknall Road, onApril 21. There were also two shooting incidents in Gregory Boulevard within two weeks

On April 14, a 17-year-old youth and a 36-year-old woman suffered minor injuries after being shot outside the Stage Hotel, and on April 30, shots were fired at a car at the junction of Birkin Avenue and Gregory Boulevard.

Police said they did not believe the latest incident was linked to the other shootings.

Anyone who can help should call 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.