A FIREARMS incident at Leigh railway station is causing delays for commuters this evening.

Police patrol cars were seen parked outside the station and witnesses have reported seeing the police helicopter in the area.

A c2c spokesman confirmed there had been delays due to a "firearms incident".

But British Transport Police has confirmed it found "nothing suspicious" after a search of the area.

A force spokesman said: “Officers were called to Leigh station on Monday following a report of a person carrying a suspected firearm.

"The call came into police at 7.20pm.

"Officers attended alongside colleagues from the Essex Police.

"Officers carried out an extensive search of the station and local area but nothing suspicious was found.

"The incident resulted in delays to passengers at the station and in the area and we would like to thank them for their patience while we dealt with the incident."

A c2c spokesman said: "The line has reopened between Pitsea and Leigh after police attended to an earlier firearms incident at Leigh.

"Trains were held in platforms along the route in order to avoid trains becoming trapped." 

Greater Anglia is currently accepting c2c tickets between Liverpool Street and Southend Victoria.

British Transport Police has thanked commuters for their patience while officers deal with the incident.