Cheshire Police appeal to trace man after report of firearm spotted in Blacon pub

Jan 18 2012 by Mark Dowling, Chester Chronicle

Detectives in Chester are appealing to the public for help in tracing a man police wish to speak to after a firearm was allegedly spotted in a Blacon pub.

The incident, reported in the early hours of Sunday, happened in the Waggon and Horses pub.

Police are now looking to speak to Lee Ward, 30, who has links in Blacon, Chester, Merseyside and North Wales.

DCI Paul Beauchamp said: "We are keen to trace Lee Ward as part of the investigation into a disturbance at the Waggon and Horses pub which took place between friday and Saturday, when a report was made to police of a firearm being sighted.

"Although no firearm was discharged and no injuries were reported, we take incidents of this nature extremely seriously and a full investigation into the circumstances is under way.

"Patrols in the area have been stepped up to offer local residents reassurance he safety of the public is our main priority."

The Waggon and Horses pub was closed by Cheshire Police on Sunday.

DCI Beauchamp added: Although we do not believe Ward poses a risk to the public as a whole, he potentially has access to firearms and is considered to be a violent individual.

We advise the public not to approach Ward if sighted and report any information or sightings to Cheshire Police.

Similarly, I would appeal to Lee himself to come forward and contact us or present himself at his nearest police station so inquiries into this incident can be continued.

As part of the police investigation, officers are also keen to speak to Wards brother, 23-year-old Scott Ward, who has links in the Blacon and wider Chester area.

Anyone with any information concerning the current or recent whereabouts of Lee and Scott Ward are urged to call Cheshire Police on 101 quoting Operation Gowan, or in an emergency, 999.

Information can be left anonymously with Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.