Private Eye editor Ian Hislop, who lives in Sissinghurst, reportedly shot at while sat in taxi in Dean Street, Westmintser

Private Eye editor Ian Hislop was allegedly targeted by a gunman who shot at his taxi during rush hour.

The Have I Got News For You star, who lives in Sissinghurst, near Cranbrook, is said to have been in the back seat of the cab when a firearm was discharged.

According to reports, the bullet hit the rear window just after 10am yesterday (October 1) as it was sitting in traffic in central London.

The incident took place in Dean Street, Westminster, near the junction with Oxford Street and close to the Private Eye's offices.

The taxi driver told detectives the car was at a standstill when he heard a noise that sounded like something striking the window, reports suggest.

Police officers have launched an investigation and searched the area, closed roads, and are reviewing CCTV footage.

No injuries have been reported.

Mr Hislop has been the editor of the satirical magazine Private Eye since 1986 and is believed to have become one of the most sued men in English legal history.

KentOnline has contacted the Met Police and Private Eye for further information.