ARMED police surrounded a house on the outskirts of Clacton town centre after reports of disturbance this afternoon.

The High Street was blocked off between Beaconsfield Road and Granville Road by police cars at 2.15pm today.

At least six police cars and a van were called to the incident, along with an armed response unit.

Police armed with semi-automatic weapons were seen in the road at the front of the property.

A team of officers wearing protective helmets and carrying shields were also at the scene, opposite the Best One off-licence.

Pedestrians were prevented from walking past the property while the stand-off continued.

A large number of people had gathered in the street to watch the drama unfold.

At about 3.50pm officers were seen forcing the suspect - a 63-year-old local man - to the ground in the front garden of the house.

The man was restrained and taken away in the back of the police van for questioning.

Essex Police later confirmed no-one had been hurt during the incident.

A force spokesman said: "Police were called to an address off the High Street in Clacton shortly after 2.15pm following reports of a disturbance.

"Officers attended and following inquiries at the scene subsequently arrested a 63-year-old man from Clacton on suspicion of making threats to kill.

"He has been taken to Clacton police station for questioning.

"The road at the location was closed while police dealt with the incident to ensure the safety of members of the public."