A group of budding film makers were targeted by armed police in Plymouth after their fake guns were mistaken for the real thing.

The three youths found themselves facing a police firearms unit on Sunday, November 30 after members of the public reported seeing two youths with guns in the South Hill area of the city.

A police spokesman said the youths were seen going into a home which was "contained by armed officers while further enquiries were carried out".

At 5pm the three left the house and were detained by police.

A police spokesman said: "After a search of the address an imitation rifle and handgun were located and seized.

"The youths were interviewed and stated they had been filming themselves in situations with a firearm for a project.

"They have been warned and released without any further action."

He added that police want to remind people of the serious consequences that can arise from inappropriate use of imitation weapons.