POLICE think burglars who stole a selection of muskets and pistols from a flat in the Aire Valley "knew what they were looking for."

Detectives were called to the burglary in Leonard Street, Bingley, just after 10am yesterday.

Later, officers seized three antique pistols from inside the property and arrested a pensioner on suspicion of firearms offences.

Some residents said they felt uncomfortable after hearing about the presence of muskets and pistols at a property on their street.

Meanwhile, police are keen to hear from anyone who may be offered similar-style weapons for sale.

Detective Inspector Ryan Bragg, of Bradford District CID, said: "Police were called to Leonard Street, Bingley at just after 10am following reports of a burglary.

"Officers attended and found that a quantity of muskets and pistols had been stolen.

"Police also seized three antique pistols from inside the property as part of their enquiries.

"We believe the suspects knew what they were looking for and arrived at the property in a vehicle, which was possibly a 4x4.

"A 71-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of firearms offences and is currently in custody.

"We would also be interested to hear from anyone who may be offered similar style weapons for sale."

Residents in Leonard Street gave their reaction to the incident.

One of them, Betty Hill said: "I'm not happy about that at all.

"What on earth do they need firearms for?

"I just don't agree with people having firearms at all."

A fellow Leonard Street resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "It's scary, there are children playing round here.

"The fact that it happened around school time as well."

Martyn Scatliffe, a resident of Leonard Street, said: "If they are antique pistols they will all have been locked and made safe. I don't feel scared that they were in a flat here.

"You won't be able to get ammunition for the guns.

"I can't understand why the 71-year-old man has been arrested. The house will have been made safe.

"I don't feel concerned by firearms being in there.

"You can't get ammunition for those antique pistols."

Police said enquiries into the incident are currently at an early stage.

Anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the Leonard Street area of Bingley around the time of the incident are urged to contact Bradford District CID on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.