WITNESSES reported hearing gunshots shortly before armed police descended on a street in Billingham on Wednesday night.

Cleveland Police received a report of a firearm being discharged towards an unoccupied address on Hylton Road at around 10.40pm.

According to eyewitness reports, armed officers, dog units and a riot van responded to the suspected shooting on Hylton Road, with police also seen at Gainford Road.

The residential road is currently cordoned off.

A man living on a neighbouring street said: "I was in my back garden with my dog at about 10.30pm or 11pm and heard two bangs.

"I didn't think they were gunshots so didn't go out straightaway, I thought it was a firework or car back firing.

"Within 15 mins everyone was out on the street talking about it.

"There's not usually any trouble around here and it's worrying, I have children and I don't want them seeing or hearing about things like this."

Witnesses said motorcyclists were seen fleeing the area after gunshots were heard.

Residents took to social media to say they were told to stay indoors by police following the incident.

A spokesperson for Cleveland Police said: "Officers are at an early stage with the investigation and would appeal for any witnesses to contact Cleveland Police Major Crime Team on the non-emergency number 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

"No one was injured and no arrests have been made."