ARMED police officers rushed to a borough residential area this afternoon (Wednesday, 1 July) after being alerted over a clash between residents and a report of gunshots.

However, investigations have shown no shots were fired, nor weapons involved – the noise being attributed to the heavy slamming of a vehicle door.

A statement from Essex Police says: ""We received a call reporting shouting and the sound of an argument in the area of Monks Haven, Stanford-le-Hope, shortly before 2.50pm.

"The caller further reported hearing the sound of gunshots.

"Our specialist firearms officers were swiftly on scene carrying out enquiries and engaging with the public.

"No evidence of firearms offences or gunshots was identified.

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"The sound was determined to have been the sound of a van door slamming during the course of the argument.

"Our armed officers patrol the county every day and are ready to respond to such incidents at a moment's notice – even when only as a precaution."