Police are investigating an alleged firearms incident outside a family-run pub.

Police were called to what was believed a firearm being discharged outside the Duke of Wellington on High Street, Epping shortly before 9pm last Thursday (March 21).

The situation is believed to have flared up after an argument between a group of people.

Duke of Wellington manager Sharon Ryan said she has never known anything like this to happen in the 27 years she has worked at the pub.

She described it as a “one-off incident”, saying: “It happened really quick, I don’t really know what the story is right now because we have heard so many stories from different people."

A group of around 11 middle-aged men who had never been seen by staff and locals before entered the pub that evening.

The group left shortly afterwards, and a brawl took place in the car park.

Gunshots were heard by pub regulars and people in neighbouring flats.

Ms Ryan added: “We don’t know if it was a random thing or planned, it just happened so quickly.

“It’s a shame because we have got lovely regulars and children who play in the garden during the summer but now it’s going to take a while for people to regain their trust to come back in.”

The manager said the pub is well known for organising community events such as charity fundraisers, quizzes and live music.

“Locals were shocked that something like this can happen,” explained Ms Ryan. “But unfortunately, in this trade, opening your door brings in people you never know or never expect to behave the way they do.”

Essex Police have appealed for witnesses, saying: “We understand that the people knew each other. No one was reported to have been injured.

“Officers conducted a thorough search of the area but neither the group nor a weapon were found.”

Anyone who was in the area or pub around the time and heard or saw the incident are asked to contact Loughton CID on 101, quoting reference 42/44732/19.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.