A PRIMARY school was placed on lockdown as armed police executed a warrant at an address in Colchester.

Residents spotted firearms officers in Hickory Avenue from just after 11am on Wednesday.

Officers were conducting a raid at a property in the area, arresting a man on suspicion of firearms and drugs offences.

Unity Primary Academy, which is located in the road, initiated lockdown procedures whilst the operation was ongoing.

An email was sent to parents advising them of the situation.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "Armed officers executed a warrant at an address in Hickory Close, Colchester, shortly after 11.10am on Wednesday 5 February.

"A 22-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm, possession of cannabis with intent to supply and possession of cannabis.

"He has since been released under investigation.

"Two woman arrested at the address – a 57-year-old on suspicion of possession of cannabis with intent to supply, and a 20-year-old on suspicion of a public order offence – will face no further action."