CHARD town centre was brought to a standstill while armed police searched a property after reports of someone with what looked like a gun.

A man has been detained following the incident.

Police were called to the scene just after 4.30pm on Friday, August 2, to reports of a man at the window of the flat with what appeared to be a long-barrelled weapon.

A spokesman for Avon and Somerset Police said: "We closed Fore Street as a precaution while specialist firearms officers assessed the situation.

Just after 6.20pm officers detained a man at a property in Fore Street. Our search of the premises continues, but there is no risk to the public.

"We’re grateful to the witnesses who reported this suspicious incident.

"We’d also like to thank the community for their patience and co-operation during this incident."