Residents across Southend may hear gunfire and explosions next week as MOD Shoebury has issued a warning.

QinetiQ, which operates the range at Shoebury on behalf of the Ministry of Defence (MOD), has revealed it has activities scheduled to take place on the range next week.

Explosions may be heard from Monday to Wednesday (March 27 to 29), with no activity to report for the rest of the week.

The MOD says this does not represent an increase in range activity, but it may possibly be noticed by residents.

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Experts note weather conditions will determine where and how loud sounds may be noticed off site.

Explosions will take place between 9am and 5pm on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

However, the MOD warns this is subject to change at short notice.

If members of the public have any concerns about range activity, they can call the freephone Careline on 0800 0560108.

Members of the public can also receive advance notification of activities by registering for the advance alert service. Email requests should be sent to QQSHBEnquiries@qinetiq.com.

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