Armed officers were called and the helicopter was launched after reports were made a man was spotted with a gun.

Witnesses reported a large police presence in the vicinity of Westcliff station and a man was later arrested in London Road.

The incident took place last night and followed an earlier disturbance in Leigh.

A spokesman for Essex Police: "We attended an address in Leigh-on-Sea at around 8.15pm yesterday, Sunday, March 17, following a disturbance.

"One man was taken to hospital for precautionary checks.

"We received a second call at around 8.40pm with information that someone might have been in possession of a firearm.

"A 47-year-old man was located in London Road, Westcliff, and detained.

"No weapons were found and he remains in custody for questioning."

Police were unable to specify what road in Leigh the initial disturbance took place or the nature of the incident.

It is also not known what the man was arrested on suspicion of.

Anyone with information should contact Essex Police on 101.