TWO youths are in custody at Worcester Police Station after a teenager was shot in the face by what is believed to be a BB-gun pellet fired from a car in Malvern.

The victim - a 14-year-old boy - is expected to undergo surgery at Birmingham Eye Hospital today to remove the pellet.

The youths were arrested about an hour and a half after the boy was shot on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm. One is also suspected of possessing cannabis.

The boy was injured near McDonalds on Malvern Retail Park, Townsend Way, at approximately 6.15pm when he was hit by the pellet fired through the open window of a green Nissan Micra while he was standing with friends.

Inspector Clive Griffiths, head of policing in Malvern Hills, said: "Incidents involving BB-guns and air-guns are, fortunately, very rare throughout South Worcestershire.

"While it is perfectly legal to possess certain weapons of this type, if mis-used - intentionally or not - they are dangerous."

Anyone who saw the incident should call officers on 08457 444 888, quoting 482S/300108, or contact them anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.