Police in Essex are investigating reports that a lion has been spotted in a field near St Osyth.

Police - who have told residents to enjoy the bank holiday but "be cautious" - are looking for signs after the sighting off Earls Hall Drive.

Essex police are working with experts from Colchester Zoo who believe the reports to be genuine after being shown a photograph by a member of the public.

Local resident Che Kevlin told the BBC he heard a "loud roar" at 22:00 BST.

Armed police have been drafted into the area and two police helicopters are searching the area where it was spotted.

Asked whether the animal would be shot if it was found, spokeswoman Donna Veasey told the BBC officers had to consider the safety of the public at all times.

She also said one reported sighting had turned out to be a cat.

Donna Veasey of Essex Police says residents have been advised to stay indoors
Essex police say about 25 officers are on the scene, including around a dozen specialist firearms officers, and experts from Colchester zoo are also on hand. They are looking for signs such as pawprints.

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