A couple were shot after answering their front door.

The 50-year-old woman and a 43-year-old were at home in in Melon Road, Leytonstone, at 11pm on Monday when a gang of youths banged on the front door.

The woman was then shot in her hand, and the man suffered a wound to his arm.

The couple were taken to Whipps Cross University Hospital in Leytonstone but have since been discharged.

The couple's sons, aged 16 and 18, were upstairs at the time of the shooting and escaped injury.

Police are appealing for witnesses and information from the public.

The suspects are described as four black youths in their late teens, who were seen driving off in a silver-coloured car in the direction of Cathall Road following the shooting.

The car had been previously parked outside the address.

Police say they are keeping an open mind about the motive.

There have been no arrests.

Officers from Trident are investigating and anyone with information are asked to call the incident room on 8217 7381 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.