Police are hunting for a man who made off from the scene of a firearm incident in Chatham.

Kent Police were called to the Swift Crescent and Defiant Close area of Chatham shortly after 2pm this afternoon (Saturday) following reports of a man with a firearm.

Witnesses reported seeing armed police, police dogs and the helicopter flying overhead and surrounding one house in Defiant close.

Roads around the area were closed and residents and the public were advised to avoid the area while the incident was ongoing.

Police conducted a full search of the area and roads have since re-opened, but officers are still searching for a man.

A spokesman for Kent Police said that while the incident did not seem to suggest any specific threat to the public, as those involved appear to have known each other, it was important the suspect was captured. Officers urged him to hand himself in.

Local neighbourhood police officers are still in the Lordswood area and will be speaking to local residents about any concerns or information they may have.

Chief Inspector Iain Mackenzie said: "We want to thank the public and local residents in Chatham today for their patience while we dealt with this incident. I would like to reassure people that we are actively searching for a man at this time but we do not believe there is a specific threat to the general public. If anyone has any concerns, then please speak with the local neighbourhood officers who will be patrolling the area tonight or call Kent Police on 101."

Anyone who has any information about this incident should call 101 quoting reference 04-0860.