A man has been charged after armed police were called to reports of someone seen with a weapon.

Officers descended on Mortimer Street, Herne Bay where they arrested a suspect for a firearms offence.

Luke Burch, of Mortimer Street, Herne Bay, has since been charged with possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

The 34-year-old is also charged with criminal damage in relation to damage caused to a cell at Margate Police Station.

Police were called to Mortimer Street on Tuesday shortly before 6pm.

Before making the arrest, the officers had gathered in a nearby Aldi car park as shocked shoppers looked on.

Mr Burch appeared before Folkestone Magistrates' Court on Thursday and was bailed to appear at Canterbury Crown Court on May 30.