UPDATE, 5.30pm: Police call for calm amid search for rogue gunmen in West Berkshire

UPDATED, 5.30pm: Thames Valley Police has urged the public to remain calm and avoid speculation after an incident reported yesterday afternoon, involving two men spotted driving around Beenham with a gun.

Police have confirmed that, though alarming, there is no evidence to suggest any threat to the wider public and that they are not aware of any other firearms incidents in West Berkshire in recent days.

A police spokesperson said: "We are aware there has been widespread speculation today that has been causing concern in local communities regarding a man aiming a weapon at schools.

"Please be reassured this speculation is false and that Thames Valley Police has not received any information to suggest that such incidents have happened."

Regarding yesterday's incident, they added: "The firearm was not directed at anyone and no one was threatened.

"A thorough investigation into this incident is ongoing and there is not believed to be a wider risk to the public at this time.

"Officers will be patrolling the local area over the coming days."

PUBLISHED, 12.20pm:

Police are currently searching for two unidentified men who were spotted lurking in and around Beenham with a gun yesterday (Tuesday).

But officers have said there is no evidence of a threat to the public.

Two males brandishing what appeared to be an air rifle were pictured yesterday afternoon around 4pm in Stoneyfield, shooting pigeons on the surrounding rooftops.

Beenham Primary School has confirmed it went into lockdown following reports of the incident.

Beenham Pre-School confirmed only one member of staff was on site, as all other staff and children had left by that time.

A Thames Valley Police spokesperson confirmed officers attended the scene after receiving reports yesterday.

They said: "We received numerous reports in relation to a suspicious vehicle in Beenham at around 4pm yesterday.

"It was reported that two men in camo/hunting gear were holding what is believed to be an air rifle.

"They were seen in a grey Nissan Nivara shooting pigeons at the junction of The Stocks and Stoneyfield, as well as driving through the village."

They said "the firearm was not pointed at anybody and the men did not threaten anyone."

"Officers attended and searched the area for the vehicle but it was not located," the spokesperson added. "There is no evidence to suggest any threat to the public.

"An investigation is under way and anyone with information should call 101 or make a report on our website, quoting reference number 43230125968."

You can also provide information anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or via its website.