SCHOOLCHILDREN were kept inside after a ‘traveller’ waved an air gun towards them, the Chronicle can exclusively reveal.

Parents at Moorlands Primary School in Church End Lane, Tilehurst, were told they could keep their children at home tomorrow (Friday) following the shocking incident.

A group of travellers have pitched up on the field directly behind the primary school.

Concerned parents phoned the police when they spotted a child with an air rife.

A police spokesman said: "Thames Valley Police was called to reports of a person being in possession of an air rifle near to the Moorland Primary School in Church End Lane, Reading.

"On arrival, a child was in possession of an unloaded air rifle, with no access to ammunition. The weapon was removed by the parents of the child and taken to another address.

"There were reassurances patrols around school closing time today (Thursday) and will be again in the morning, although the situation has been resolved and the family involved were given advice."

The school warned parents about the incident.

One mum, who asked not to be named, said: “There is a big group of travellers behind the school.

“One of the children was waving an air rifle at the school kids.”

Reading Borough Council confirmed there were no injuries as a result of the incident.

A spokesman added: "Two young people were seen carrying pellet guns in a field next to Moorlands Primary School this afternoon where a group of travellers are currently staying.

"The school rang the police who attended immediately and the pupils were kept inside as a precaution. There were no pellets fired and the police have assured the school there is no danger.

"The pupils have left the school as normal without any harm or distress."