A MAN has been released under investigation after officers uncovered a loaded crossbow among a haul of dangerous weapons.

The "crazy" find was discovered during a routine traffic stop, in Coast Road, West Mersea, at around 2.15am on Saturday.

A selection of weapons were seized, including a loaded high-impact crossbow, arrow bolts, a knife, a machete, hammers and a sword-like blade.

A 38-year-old man, from West Mersea, was arrested for possession of an offensive weapon.

He was later released under investigation.

Essex Police's Operational Support Group posted a picture of the find on Twitter alongside the caption: "Early start and now the late finish.

"This time in #Colchester district, stop on car and driver arrested.

"Why would you carry all this? #Crazy."

One Twitter user described the collection as "preparation for zombie apocalypse."