Armed police swooped on a popular Croydon night spot and found a loaded handgun stashed in the men's toilets.

Friday night revellers were evacuated from the Escapade night club in High Street while officers carried out searches.

They were called by somebody inside the crowded club. No weapon was found on any of the revellers, but police said they were informed of a potential hiding place under a sink in the toilets.

Croydon CID is appealing for anyone at the club who saw anything to come forward.

Detective Sergeant Brian Flynn said: "We need to know anyone who might know the identity of the individual with the gun. The underlying fact is that it could be linked with gang warfare."

Police said Escapade had been hosting a promotion called Suga' - where rap music was being played.

It is believed many of those attending the club on the night may have come from outside the borough for the promotion.

Police dismissed any link between the music played on the night and guns. Detective Inspector Jacqui Hands added: "It is fairly unusual for us to be called out to this type of incident. People need to be aware that gun culture is out there but it is an unusual occurrence in Croydon."

Anyone with any information is urged to call Detective Constable Tanya Tidey on 020 8649 0090 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.