Armed police were called to a hotel following reports of a man in possession of a firearm on New Year's Day.

At around 7.15pm, officers were called to A40 London Road by the Mercure Thame Lambert Hotel near Chinnor after receiving calls of a man seen with a firearm.

Thames Valley Police arrested a 26-year-old man on suspicion of possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

He has since been released on police bail.

A hotel guest, Mick Barton, who was travelling from Birmingham to visit family admitted it was a “shock” to be met by three armed officers on his arrival.

He said: “It was a shock to arrive at the hotel and be greeted by armed police.

“However, I must say the police were very good, and professional and reassured us by keeping us informed.

“Knowing there was something going on, we felt safer in the hotel knowing the police were there and on top of the situation.

“I got the impression the hotel staff were as shocked or more shocked than we were but there was no sense of panic, they took it in their stride.”

A Thames Valley Police spokesperson said: “Officers, including armed officers, attended the A40 London Road near the Mercure Thames Lambert Hotel near Chinnor following a report of possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence at around 7.15pm on Sunday (January 1).

“A 26-year-old man of no fixed abode was arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence. He has been released on police bail.”