Boxer in hospital after shooting

A former professional boxer from the Black Country was gunned down in front of his wife in a gangland-style shooting.

Well-known father-of-two Ronnie Campbell was shot in the leg by a masked man outside his home in Kilburn Place, Netherton.

The 42-year-old, who works as a doorman at Dudley nightclub JB's, was recovering at Russells Hall Hospital, Dudley, where his injuries were not thought to be life-threatening.

Neighbours today spoke of their shock at the shooting, which happened at around 7.45pm on Sunday.

The street remained sealed off as police investigated the Black Country's second gun crime in a week.

Armed officers were sent to Kilburn Place after Mr Campbell, aged 42, was shot.

Friend Paul Gough, who runs Priory Boxing Club, in Priory Road, Dudley, said he was shocked to hear of the shooting. "I can't believe it," he said. "Ronnie is such a nice man and is a very well respected boxer."

The attack came seven days after four gunmen blasted their way into a family home in Denbigh Road, Tipton, before attacking a couple with firearms and a hammer.

Police are now appealing for witnesses following Sunday's shooting.

They are not linking the two incidents.

Speaking shortly before she was collected by officers from Brierley Hill CID, Mr Campbell's wife Sharon would only say the couple did not know the identity of the attackers.

But neighbours said the shooting had shattered the peace in an otherwise quiet street.

One woman, who asked not to be named, said: "It all happened really quickly. There was a bang, and the next thing you know the street was full of police. It's normally very quiet around here."

Mr Campbell also works as a trainer at Roughnecks Boxing Club, in Five Ways, Cradley Heath

Mr Campbell had eight professional fights during his career, the last in April 1991, winning one, drawing two and losing five.

Police today urged anyone with information about the shooting to contact CID at Brierley Hill police station on 0845 1135000.