WEAPONS including what is believed to be a pick axe as well as suspected Class A drugs have been seized in a raid.

Officers from the Colchester Town Proactive Team and Essex Police Specials stormed a residential address in Maidenburgh Street after obtaining a warrant.

The raid was based on intelligence provided to Essex Police.

Sergeant Martin Willsher tweeted images which show weapons including what appears to be a pick axe and a large knife.

He wrote: “Quantity of what is believed to be Class A found.

“Some nasty looking weapons as well.”

Police have yet to confirm the quantity or estimated street value of the drugs found or the number of the weapons.

Following Sunday’s raid, officers conducted patrols to reassure residents of their safety and also distributed leaflets about their activity around Colchester.

It is understood no arrests have yet been made.

Mike Lilley, Colchester Council’s Labour portfolio holder for public safety, said the raid was a success.

“It is really good news for Colchester town centre and the police have taken really strong action and it is a result of their presence in the town in the last few months where they have been gathering information and people have been ringing in with information.

“This is why it is so important members of the public, if they witness anything unusual going on, they must report it straight away.

“The more information the police get, the more raids like this happen and more weapons and drugs we get off the street.”

Mr Lilley added: “It is worrying.

“We know there are people coming into Colchester from London and elsewhere, feeding into drugs gangs.

“But this raid is great news.”

Anyone who witnesses suspicious activity is urged to call Colchester Police on 101 and to dial 999 in an emergency,