A PRIMARY school was placed on lockdown as armed police executed a warrant at an address in Colchester.

Shocked residents spotted firearms officers in Hickory Avenue from just after 11am on Wednesday.

Officers were in the area conducting a raid at a property in the street, which led to the arrest of a man on suspicion of possession of a firearm and drugs offences.

Two others were also arrested in the raid.

Unity Primary Academy, which is located in the same road, initiated its lockdown procedure on advice of the police whilst the operation was ongoing.

READ MORE: Unity Primary Academy in Colchester put on lockdown due to raid

Letter sent to parents

An letter was sent to parents via email advising them of what had happened.

It said: “As a precaution the lockdown alarm was sounded and children and staff followed our procedures to ensure the security of the site.

“We understand lockdown procedures can cause anxiety especially when nobody is allowed to enter or exit the site and we are grateful for the support of our nursery parents/carers who had to wait at this time.

“The children have been thanked for their quick actions and amazing behaviour during this time.”

No risk to students

A spokesman for Unity Primary Academy added: "We liaised closely with the police, and followed their guidance to ensure the safety of our school community.

"The police have confirmed there is no danger to our pupils, and we continue to be open as usual.”

Three arrests made

Essex Police confirmed three people had been arrested in the raid but two would face no further action.

A spokesman said: “Armed officers executed a warrant at an address in Hickory Close, Colchester, shortly after 11.10am on Wednesday.

“A 22-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm, possession of cannabis with intent to supply and possession of cannabis. He has since been released under investigation.

“Two woman arrested at the address – a 57-year-old on suspicion of possession of cannabis with intent to supply, and a 20-year-old on suspicion of a public order offence – will face no further action.”

Anyone with information should contact 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.