POLICE have stepped up patrols after shots were fired in Birkenhead last week.

Emergency services were called at around 7.25pm on Friday, July 12 to Victoria Fields after gunshots were heard.

Officers attended the scene and found two casings but no damage or injuries were caused.

It is believed children were out in the area during the time of the shooting.

Police say they have now stepped up patrols to 'reassure' the community.

A spokesman said: "Officers have stepped up patrols in Wirral to reassure the local community following a firearms discharge in Victoria Fields on Friday, July 12.

"Firearms incidents are rare in Wirral and luckily no one was injured in the incident."

Last week, detective inspector Nick Suffield said: “These are the very early stages of our investigation, so I would initially like to appeal to anyone who was in the area and saw or heard anything to let us know. This happened in the daylight with children in the area so was an incredibly reckless act. If you saw anyone acting suspiciously, the incident itself, or someone making off on foot or a vehicle, come forward.

“Firearms incidents in Wirral are rare and we know that people will be concerned that this happened in their area. I want to reassure the community that we will act on all information to find the person responsible, however you choose to pass the information on, but stand with us and help us keep your area safe.

“Call us directly, or via the charity Crimestoppers, which is completely independent of the police, and what you tell us will be handled with sensitivity.”

Anyone with information can contact the Merseyside Police social media desk via @MerPolCC, call 101 reference 878.

Information can also be passed on to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.