A MAN is due to appear in court after a woman was allegedly chased by a group of people with a firearm.

Jake Constable, 20, formerly of Upper Branston Road, Clacton, will appear at Colchester Magistrates’ Court on April 18, charged with possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

Police officers were called to Mendlesham Close in Clacton 12.15am on Thursday following concerns for a woman’s welfare.

Seven people, including Constable, were subsequently arrested.

A woman, 30, a man, 20, and three men, all aged 19, arrested on suspicion of possession of firearms, possession with intent to supply of drugs other than Class A, burglary and abstracting electricity have been released on bail until May 19.

A boy, 17, arrested for possession of firearms, possession with intent to supply of drugs other than Class A and burglary has also been released on bail until the same date.

Anyone with any information about the incident is asked to contact Essex Police on 101 quoting incident 0012 of 16/03.