A NORTHWICH man charged with a firearms offence after armed police opened fire during an incident in Castle has been remanded in custody until his next court appearance.

Police were called to Robert McNally’s home on Burgess Place at 2.08pm on Monday, July 8, after concerns were raised for a person’s welfare.

Officers surrounded the 43-year-old’s property, with residents reporting ‘multiple shots’ were fired towards the house.

Police later confirmed weapons had been discharged while dealing with the incident.

McNally was taken into custody, and officers seized an imitation firearm. No serious injuries were reported.

Police cordoned off several streets around Burgess Close in CastlePolice cordoned off several streets around Burgess Close in Castle (Image: Alison Sara Hewitt)

The police cordon remained in place overnight before officers found a ‘suspicious’ package at the property at around 1.15pm on Tuesday, July 9.

Neighbours were evacuated as a precaution before bomb disposal officers confirmed the package was harmless.

McNally appeared at Chester Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, July 10, charged with possession of an imitation firearm - a Walther CP83 BB gun - with intent to cause fear of violence, and criminal damage of a police vehicle.

He entered no plea and was remanded in custody, to return to Chester Crown Court on Wednesday, August 7.