ARMED police descended on a Chester housing estate after claims that someone had been spotted with a firearm.

Residents reported seeing armed officers, five police cars and dog handlers in Wyndham Road, Blacon, about 9am last Thursday.

Cheshire police spokeswoman PC Shelley Williams said: “A 38-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear or violence.”

PC Williams confirmed that officers had carried out a search at an address in Blacon and enquiries were continuing. Two imitation firearms were recovered.

She added: “In view of the allegation a gun was seen, police presence in the area at the time of the offence included officers with the capacity to arm.”