ARMED police were called to flats above a shopping parade after a gun was spotted...but it turned out to be a toy.

Specialist officers were in Hunwicke Road, Colchester, after the 'firearm' was spotted by a member of the public.

But it was later confirmed to be a false alarm.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette:

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "We were called at around 3.05pm on Monda after a woman reported seeing a man with what she believed to be a firearm at a property in Hunwicke Road, Colchester.

"We attended the scene and searched an address to find a toy gun on a balcony.

"We gave a man at the address words of advice.

"No further action will be taken."