THERE was a continued police presence in the Seabrooke Rise area of Grays today (Sunday, 25 May) following last night's incident when gunshots were reported.

A statement from Essex Police says: "Detectives are continuing to work through targeted lines of enquiry as part of our response to an incident in the Seabrook Rise area of Grays.

"We responded to reports of an incident taking place last night.

"We received a number of calls shortly after 7pm, which all reported a confrontation involving two groups of people. A dark-coloured vehicle was also reported as being driven suspiciously in the area.

"During that confrontation, witnesses reported hearing what they've described as gunshots.

"At this stage, no one with injuries consistent with a gunshot have been identified.

"However, the reports were taken extremely seriously, and a number of armed units arrived on the scene very quickly.

"Officers carried out an extensive search of the area and no one matching the descriptions given in the reports were identified.

"Our enquiries are continuing and we're following a number of fast-paced and targeted lines of enquiry.

"Officers remained in the area overnight and that presence will continue throughout today."

Chief Superintendent Scott Egerton, West area local policing commander, said: "This investigation is moving at pace with a number of specific lines of enquiry and it's only right that we let that continue unobstructed.

"It is also important to say that no victims with injuries in any way consistent with a gunshot have come forward to us or otherwise been identified.

"Nonetheless I of course recognise this incident may have caused concern in the area and it's likely you'll see officers patrolling the Seabrook Rise area – as well as in the town centre.

"They are there for your reassurance so if you have any concerns to raise, please don't hesitate to approach them."

We continue to appeal for anyone with information or footage of the incident to please come forward and contact us as soon as possible.

"Please cite incident 1034 of 24 May.

"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website where you can use our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm.

"Visit https://www.essex.police.uk/digital101to find out more about our website reporting services. Alternatively, you can call us on 101.

"If you would like to make an anonymous report, you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers on Twitter at @CrimestoppersUK, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111."