ARMED police arrested a man and a women on suspicion of firearms and drugs offences.

Police descended on Mendip Crescent, Westcliff assisted by the force helicopter.

Residents reported five police cars, including a dog unit at the scene.

A handcuffed and shirtless man was seen kneeling on a grass verge after being arrested at a premises.

A woman was held in one of the police cars.

A police spokeswoman said: "Police received reports that firearms had been seen at an address in Mendip Crescent, Westcliff, at about 1.45pm on Tuesday, July 7.

""Officers and the force helicopter were deployed.

"A 26-year-old man from the Southend area was arrested on suspicion of firearms offences and is currently in police custody awaiting questioning.

"A 25-year-old woman from the Southend area was arrested on suspicion of possession of drugs with intent to supply and is currently in police custody awaiting questioning."