ARMED officers were called in after two youngsters were spotted with a BB gun in Southend.

Police raced to Southchurch Avenue at 6.50pm on Saturday.

Now officers are warning children and parents of the potential dangers of BB guns.

The two boys, aged 15 and 16 from Shoebury, were arrested on suspicion of possessing an imitation firearm in a public place and have been bailed to return to Southend Police Station on May 24.

* FULL REPORT IN WEDNESDAY'S ECHO