Warning issued over ‘toy guns’

A ‘false alarm’ in Weston-super-Mare in which a ‘shotgun’ and ‘machine gun’ were spotted - and shots were heard - has prompted Avon and Somerset police to issue a warning to owners of toy guns.

The incident happened in St Georges at the weekend and fire arms officer were called to the emergency.

Despite the fact it was a false alarm, two men aged 18 and 23 were given strong words of advice by police about how they handled the toy guns in public

Chief Inspector John Holt said: “At a time when the whole country is of heightened security, people really need to think carefully about their actions and what impact they may have on others, especially when items such as these air soft weapons are concerned.

“Firearms officers are highly trained individuals, who are experts in their field, but also have to make split-second decisions based on what they are faced with.

“These air soft weapons at first glance look very realistic and during these days of increased tension and security, owners really need to act responsibly and think about the impact they may have on members of the public.”