Armed police and a police helicopter were mobilised in Wells this evening after a motorist reported seeing another driver brandishing what appeared to be a handgun.

The incident unfolded in Croscombe, a neighbouring village, where the man was reportedly seen with a weapon in his vehicle.

Despite no direct threats being reported, the situation, reported around 6pm, escalated quickly as authorities launched a full-scale operation.

Armed police, along with a helicopter from the National Police Air Service, swooped into action, canvassing the area for about an hour. The suspect was apprehended shortly after on Rowdens Road in Wells.

Avon and Somerset Police have since clarified the situation. "Police were alerted just after 6pm on Tuesday, April 23, following a report by a driver who observed what they believed to be a handgun displayed in a car in Croscombe," a police spokesperson said. "Although no threats were issued, the presence of the weapon warranted an immediate response, deploying specialist firearms officers to the scene."

The operation culminated with the helicopter aiding in the search, leading to the man's detention just after 7pm.

Authorities have seized several items, suspected to be air weapons, and are continuing their investigation.

The police are urging anyone with more information to come forward and contact them on 101, quoting the reference 5224103931.