A Conservative councillor accused of threatening a neighbour with an imitation firearm is due to appear in court this morning.

Nick Buckmaster, 50, of Mount Echo Drive, Chingford is charged with possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear.

The Larkswood ward councillor was arrested by armed police on January 18 after police were called to College Gardens in Chingford around 9:15am following reports of a fight, and a man seen carrying a gun.

Mr Buckmaster was first elected to represent the Chingford ward in 2006 and again in 2010. He has since been de-selected from the Conservative party and will not stand in next month's local elections.

He was released on unconditional bail ahead of today's hearing at Snaresbrook Crown Court where he is due to enter a plea.