Armed police were deployed in Chigwell this afternoon after a man was shot "in the upper body".

The man was been taken to hospital where his injuries were being assessed, although they are not believed to be life threatening.  

Police were called to Woolston Hall, in Abridge Road, Chigwell, after receiving a report shortly before 3.50pm that a man had been seriously injured.

Armed officers went to the scene of the shooting and have been speaking to witnesses to establish the circumstances of the incident.

There have been no arrests. Essex Police are liaising with the Metropolitan Police and other surrounding police forces. 

Assistant Chief Constable Maurice Mason said: "This has been declared a critical incident and Essex Police has mobilised a large number of officers including armed units in response.

"At this time there is no evidence to suggest that there is any threat to the general public. We will be constantly reassessing the information we receive as the investigation progresses to ensure that the safety of the people of Essex remains paramount."

"If anyone was in the Woolston Hall area at the time of the shooting and has information of use to our enquiry I would urge them to contact us on 101."