REPORTS that a firearm has been discharged near Connaught Barracks in Dover are being investigated by the army and Kent Police.

PPlice received reports that a firearm had been fired twice just before 6am this morning.

It is not known whether the shots were fired inside the army compound, or outside, or whether anyone has been injured.

The initial investigation by Kent Police has involed a police helicopter from Essex, anti terrorism unit, and an armed police response. Guston Road has been closed to motorists.

Army spokesman, Paul Beard, said that today was the day members of 1 Para Regiment were due to fly from Manston airport to take up duties in Northern Ireland.