POLICE found this machine gun during a drugs raid in a Kent town.

Armed officers and dog handlers swooped at the address in Trove Court, Ramsgate, on Tuesday night.

Possession of the MP5 semi-automatic gun, which is a prohibited weapon, can lead to a 10-year prison sentence.

Possessing such a weapon with intent to endanger life carries a punishment of up to life imprisonment.

A large quantity of cannabis, with a street value of £3,500, was found. Other drugs, believed to be LSD and cocaine, were also seized. They have been sent for testing.

Police say the machine gun has been sent for forensic analysis.

Det Insp Tony Pledger said: "We are fortunate gun crime is not prevalent in this part of the world and we are determined to keep it that way."

Two people - a 26-year-old man and a 17-year-old girl - were arrested and charged with possession of the weapon and possession of cannabis. They have been remanded in custody.

Another 26-year-old man was also arrested in connection with the firearm. He was bailed until January 16, 2008, pending further enquiries.