ARMED police officers sealed off an area around Wickford railway station after reports of a man armed with a gun shooting at two passers-by.

The incident happened on Sunday at about 3.30pm, in Station Approach, where the man allegedly opened fire at the two men from a black Nissan.

Witness, Hugh Hunter, 68, from Market Road, Wickford, told the Echo: “I saw armed police coming into the area, they turned up behind Wickford railway station. I watched from a block of flats as a helicopter was flying into the area, searching for the two men.”

This came shortly after the Echo reported on an incident last Friday where armed police and a helicopter swooped in Chalvdeon Square, Pitsea, after reports of a man wandering around allegedly carrying a firearm.

David Harrison, leader of Wickford Independents representing Wickford Park, told residents not to be alarmed despite the Wickford incident.

He said: “We don’t know if these are locals or not, but police are investigating the incident. So residents can be assured authorities are looking into this matter.

“Wickford is a safe place and these things don’t happen very often.”

Peter Holliman, Conservative councillor representing Wickford North, said nevertheless residents need to stay alert and vigilant.

He added: “I urge residents to take note of their surroundings and to keep themselves safe, and be aware of any potential dangers.

“But at the same time, incidents like these don’t happen in Wickford very often so you can’t walk with your heads down forever.

“You don’t need to be living in constant fear.

“Essex seems to have a reputation for being an underbelly for crime and gun violence.

“But this is not the true picture.”

An Essex Police spokesman said: “Police were called to a report of a man being seen with a firearm in Station Approach, Wickford, shortly before 3.30pm on Sunday, October 1.

“It was reported two men were shot at from a black Nissan Novaro towing a horse box.

“Officers attended the area and conducted a search. Investigations are continuing.

“Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting incident 687 of 01/10/17.”