ARMED police were called to Ryde this afternoon (Wednesday) to reports of possession of a firearm.

The Isle of Wight Police alongside an armed response unit were called to parts across the town, including Union Street, to investigate after a teenage girl received an image of a gun.

A spokesperson for the police said: "We were called just after 2pm today to a report of a possession of a firearm in Ryde.

"Following further enquiries, this is being investigated as a report of malicious communications, after an image of a firearm was sent to a 17-year-old girl.

"The officers convened in Ryde prior to the further enquiries being made and then a decision was made that firearms officers were not required."