A SHOT was apparently fired at a milkman when he chased thieves who stole items from his milk wagon early today.

The milkman escaped unhurt in the drama.

The unnamed worker gave chase in his wagon after a group of people are alleged to have stolen a large quantity of milk from him.

The group sped off in a grey Subaru, and it is believed a shot was fired at the milk wagon.

The incident occurred at about 4am on the B1222, between Cawood and Sherburn-In-Elmet.

Police vehicles then joined the pursuit before the four-wheel-drive car was lost in the Upton area, near Pontefract.

The high-powered vehicle was later found abandoned along a dirt farm track in the area.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident which they believe is linked to illegal game shooting in the area.

PC George Beatty, of Selby Police, said the group may have been "lamping."

This is an illegal sport where the participants shoot rabbits and other wild game on farm land using high-powered lights.

PC Beatty said this was a common activity in the area and often caused an enormous amount of damage to crops and fences. Anyone with any information should contact Selby police on 01757 702596.

Updated: 12:58 Friday, January 25, 2002