A GUNMAN who went on the run after threatening a police officer with a gun outside two schools is believed to have left Oxfordshire.

Hundreds of pupils were ordered inside while armed officers hunted for the man in Didcot last Friday. The incident came after a car in which the man was travelling was followed by officers, after being seen driving erratically on Oxford's Eastern Bypass.

Police say no arrests have been made despite several houses in the county being searched at the weekend.

They believe the man has very strong connections to London and is likely to be a member of the criminal underworld.

Toby Shergold, a spokesman for Thames Valley Police, said: "There is a very good chance the gunman is not in Didcot.

"I would also like to reassure the public that we have armed response teams on standby that can react instantly if a further incident does occur."

He said police were talking to other forces in the South East to follow up leads.

Det Sgt Alan Clements, of South Oxfordshire CID, said: "We believe he is a member of the criminal fraternity. We do not think he poses an immediate danger to the public."

The 270 pupils at Willowcroft Community School in Mereland Road were gathered together in the main hall for their own safety.

Headteacher Jon Gray said: "I was really impressed with the children and staff and how they handled the situation."

The gunman is described as black, 5ft 9in tall, in his late teens or early 20s, with a short Afro-style haircut. He was wearing jeans, trainers and a black puffa jacket.

Anyone with information should call police on 08458 505505.