Armed police seal off estate

Armed police sealed off a Shropshire housing estate after residents reported a man brandishing an air weapon.

Witnesses in Purbeck Dale, Dawley, Telford, said people were screaming and running down the street.

They said the man was allegedly seen with the weapon on Saturday lunchtime.

Armed police and dog handlers were called to the scene and the road was sealed off.

One woman who lives in the street said: "The road was sealed off at both ends and people were screaming and running up and down. There were police everywhere."

Inspector Nigel Archer, of Telford police, said: "An allegation was made that a man had produced a firearm.

"We have to treat that report by following the usual policy concerning firearms which means firearm crews and dog handlers were deployed to the area.

"A man was arrested by unarmed uniformed officers."

Telford police spokesman Constable Steve Wright said the incident started at noon and police left the scene at 3.15pm.

He said: "A male was alleged to be brandishing an air weapon. No shots were fired and nobody was injured."

l A Telford man, 39, appeared at the town's magistrates court today charged with being in possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear or violence.

He was remanded in custody by magistrates for a further appearance in court later this week.