A MAN has been charged with false imprisonment and dangerous driving after armed police swooped on Frinton.

Shoppers in Connaught Avenue, Frinton, were joined by fully-equipped officers wielding rifles as Essex Police carried out a series of raids.

The investigation was launched after threats were made to a man in Frinton on October 31, with searches also carried out in nearby Walton.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette:

Shoppers snapped pictures of the huge operation

Charlie Whittaker, 21, was arrested in the early hours of Thursday, November 1.

He was later charged with false imprisonment, assault with intent to resist arrest, aggravated vehicle taking and dangerous driving.

Whittaker, of Bermerton Gardens, Kirby Cross, is due to appear at Colchester Magistrates' Court today.