POLICE have condemned people who carry weapons in public after they received reports of two men brandishing a handgun.

Armed officers were deployed after the men were seen by security camera operators near the swimming baths in Richmond, North Yorkshire, at about noon on Saturday.

A ball bearing gun was recovered from the scene and the men were arrested.

Inspector Alex Brandom said: "Once again, armed officers have had to respond to an incident that occurred due to the stupidity of certain individuals. When will people learn that the consequences of these thoughtless actions could prove tragic?"

North Yorkshire Assistant Chief Constable Peter Bagshaw has also previously warned that a tragedy could result from the increased popularity of ball bearing guns - known as BB guns.

He has called for tighter legislation of the guns, fearing armed officers could shoot someone as a result of their irresponsible use.

He said: "Clearly, when officers are responding to this kind of threat, there is a real danger to all concerned, particularly to those with the weapon.

"My officers are trained to eradicate any threat to life - the public's or their own."

The men, from Richmond, were cautioned and released without charge.