A MANHUNT is underway after two masked men pointed a gun-shaped object at a car at a local beauty spot.

Dorset Police have launched an appeal following the 'shocking' incident that took place at around 10pm last Thursday at the National Trust car park in Ringstead Bay.

Officers said two men, who were wearing white theatrical masks, pulled up next to another car and pointed an object resembling the shape of a fire arm at the people in the car.

The offenders, who were driving a silvery-blue or green Honda Civic then sped off and drove the vehicle from the car park through Poxwell, towards the Warmwell Cross Roundabout.

Police constable Kristy Heron, of Dorchester police, said: "I am appealing to anyone with information about this incident to come forward.

"I would also like to hear from anyone who saw the Honda being driven by the masked men to contact me as soon as possible.

"All calls will be treated in strict confidence."

Local people have urged people to contact the police following the incident and have expressed their shock.

Cllr Teresa Seall, who represents Ringstead on West Dorset District Council (WDDC), said: "I am shocked and quite surprised by what has happened. It's something that sounds very unusual for this area. It is a rather remote place but we never really seem to have any concerns with anything this bad. Everybody down there knows everybody else and I hope that they manage to catch whoever was responsible."

Cllr Peter Stein, who also represents the ward on WDDC said: "It’s very very rare for something like this to happen. There is an incredibly low crime rate in the area. I am completely stunned that something like this could occur. I think that this will be a great shock to the whole community and for people across the whole region."

Nick Ireland, chairman of Osmington Parish Council, said he was surprised the incident had happened in such a tight-knit community.

He said: "It's a real shock. This type of thing happens very rarely here in 'sleepy' Dorset. There are not that many people who live in that area and I would like to know what exactly happened and hope that the people responsible can be found."

Chairman of West Dorset District, Gillian Summers added: "This is a bit of a shock. I hope that the victims are okay and we can get a good outcome from the police investigation."

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police on 101 quoting incident number 26:457 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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