An arrest has been made after a man was "seen with an air rifle" on a street in South Essex.

Essex Police responded to a call at Lower Southend Road in Wickford at around 11pm on Saturday.

This was in response to reports of a man sighted with an air rifle.

At around 2am on Sunday morning, a man was arrested on suspicion of possession of an imitation firearm in a public place.

The 48-year-old man has since been released on bail.

Essex Police confirms an imitation firearm was found, secured by officers and then seized, following the reports.

A spokesperson stated: "Officers were called to Lower Southend Road in Wickford at around 11pm on Saturday, following reports of a man being seen with an air rifle.

"An imitation firearm was located, made safe by officers and seized."

During the incident, residents reported seeing a police cordon in the area, police vehicles and forensic officers on the scene.