MARK NICHOLLS A man of 56 was arrested by police in Norwich tonight on suspicion of possessing a firearm after a seven-hour stand off.Police were called to Irstead Road in the Earlham area of the city just after 12 noon following reports of a man in possession of a weapon.

MARK NICHOLLS

A man of 56 was arrested by police in Norwich tonight on suspicion of possessing a firearm after a seven-hour stand off.

Police were called to Irstead Road in the Earlham area of the city just after 12 noon following reports of a man seen in possession of a weapon.

The immediate area was sealed off as a number of police officers, including a negotiator, moved in. A man was later arrested at about 7pm after officers forced their way into the premises.

Superintendent Jo Parrett said:” The safety of members of the public was paramount. We sealed the scene as a precautionary measure while we worked to resolve the situation.”

The man was taken for questioning at Bethel Street Police Station in Norwich.

Police say no-one was injured and no members of the public were threatened.