A street in Wolverhampton was today cordoned off by police after reports of a gun being fired.

Around 30 properties in Ward Road, Blakenhall, were today behind a cordon after residents said they heard the sound of a single gunshot at about 11pm last night.

Cars were being diverted away from the street, and only residents who lived in the properties behind the police tape were allowed access.

Police say no evidence has yet been found of any bullets, but residents today spoke of their shock at the investigation.

John Rivers, aged 70, of Ward Road, said: “This is a quiet street and a nice area. I didn’t hear anything last night but then I always sleep very deeply. We don’t have much crime around here so it comes as quite a shock. It’s really unusual to see the police seal the area off. They obviously think it’s serious.”

Another resident, who did not want to be named, said: “When I walk outside it’s like being in the middle of a crime scene – it looks terrible. It doesn’t give the area the best image.”

Councillor John Rowley, who represents Blakenhall, said: “It’s definitely not a high crime area. There certainly needs to be some reassurance from the police to the community about what has happened.”

West Midlands Police say the caller reported hearing a bang but “could not be sure” if it was definitely a gunshot. Nobody went to hospital with gun wound injuries and evidence of bullets have yet to be found.

Jaspreet Jagdev, spokeswoman for West Midlands Police, said: “Police were called at 11.07pm to reports of a possible gunshot being fired on Ward Road.

“The caller reported a silver-coloured vehicle leaving the area quickly followed by a black golf VW. Both cars were headed in the direction of Goldthorn Hill.

“Officers attended the scene and made house-to-house enquiries in Goldthorn Hill and Honor Avenue.”

The investigation is continuing and anyone with information is asked to call detectives at Bilston Street police station on 0845 113 5000.