An investigation has been launched after police found a gun abandoned in the grounds of a Stoke Newington church.
Police were called to St Mary’s Church, Church Street, around 1pm following reports of a firearm being found.
Officers found a handgun stashed in a sports-bag that had been abandoned in the grounds.
Two police cars with four officers patrolled the church before updating the rector on the situation.
Police were seen walking around the church before entering the rectory at around midday.
Another vehicle, a police van, arrived at the scene later in the afternoon.
Passers-by were stunned to see the police presence at St Mary’s, the parish church of Stoke Newington.
Robert Davies, who lives close to the church, said: “It was odd seeing so many police around the church. Everyone’s been trying to work out what was going on all day.”
“This isn’t exactly something you expect at a local church.”
Police stayed at the church for two hours while the gun was made safe.
The weapon will now undergo forensic testing as police launch an investigation into the discovery.
A Metropolitan Police spokeswoman said: “Police attended and the firearm was made safe at the scene.”
The enquiry continues.
