AN investigation has been launched after an incident erupted in Clacton between two gangs thought to be armed with knives and a gun.

Police were alerted after a car was seen veering towards a group of men who were reportedly carrying knives.

The four men were standing on the pavement in Melbourne Road, near the junction with Coppins Road, when a Ford Focus drove towards them.

It smashed into two parked cars near the group – a Kia Cee’d and a BMW 320.

Three men got out of the car and there was an argument between the two groups.

A witness said one of the men from the car appeared to be pointing a gun.

After the police had been called the first gang ran off along Melbourne Road, while the other group abandoned their car and fled along Croft Road.

It happened at about 10.10pm on Monday.

Police have dubbed the incident a “disturbance” and are investigating.

Officers searched the scene and say enquiries are continuing to find the men involved.

Detective Sgt Jules Cole, of Clacton CID, said: "No-one is believed to have been injured during this incident and we are making extensive enquiries to locate and question those involved.

"I am appealing for witnesses or anyone with information who has yet to speak to police to come forward as they may have important information that could help with our investigation.

"I also want to ask residents in the area to check their bins and gardens for possible weapons that have been discarded and to contact us immediately if they find any.

"We have put extra patrols in place around the area to provide reassurance to the local community and would ask anyone with concerns or information to speak to our officers.”

Anyone with information should call Clacton CID on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or crimestoppers-uk.org