Armed police officers arrested a Conservative councillor on suspicion of a firearms offence on Saturday.

Police were called at around 9.15am and told a fight was in progress in College Gardens, Chingford.

Reports suggested a man was carrying a gun.

Nick Buckmaster who lives in Mount Echo Drive, adjacent to College Gardens, was arrested and remains in custody at an east London police station.

An air gun was recovered from the scene.

There were no reported injuries.

The 50-year-old, who represents Larkswood ward, is due to appear at Thames Magistrates’ Court today charged with possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear.

He was elected in 2006 before being re-elected in 2010.