Oliver Green, who was celebrating his eighth birthday, told BBC News he “put my hands up and dropped my gun” when officers arrived at his party in Yaxham, Norfolk.

A concerned neighbour apparently called 999 after hearing screams and firecrackers which sounded like gunfire.

Three officers responded to the call but, upon finding there was no danger, stayed for a while to celebrate the child’s birthday.

Oliver added: “I thought I was being arrested but it was a great party.”