Police are appealing for help after two .308 sniper rifles were discovered in a field behind flats in Chadwell St Mary.

The two unloaded AI rifles - complete with telescoping sights - were discovered on Friday morning behind Godman Road.

A man was seen leaving the area and an Essex Police spokesman said they were "anxious to trace him".

Although the rifles were not loaded, the spokesman added: "We don't know what the man was doing, or why the rifles came to be there. This has to be regarded as a very serious situation."

Anybody with information about the rifles or the man is asked to contact the CID department at Grays police station on 01375 391212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

Published Monday, March 11, 2002