A MAN armed with an axe reportedly made threats towards a cyclist and chased him in St Helens town centre.

Police have arrested a man in connection with the incident in the town centre today, Wednesday, September 15.

At around 12.10pm officers received report that a man in possession of an axe was pursuing a male, who was riding an electric bike, and making threats towards him on Shaw Street.

Police attended and saw a suspect, a 21-year-old from St Helens, entering an address on Lower Hall Street on foot. Officers detained and arrested him on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon and affray.

During the arrest, the suspect is alleged to have directed a threatening comment towards an officer and was further arrested in connection with public order offence.

He was taken into custody and will be questioned by police.

No injuries were reported and police also found an axe at the address.

Officers remained on Lower Hall Street this afternoon while enquiries were carried out.

Detective Inspector Leanne Hobin said: “We simply will not stand by and allow people to carry weapons and threaten the safety of themselves and others.

“Fortunately today an arrest was made and the weapon recovered before it could cause any physical harm on our streets and an investigation into the full circumstances is ongoing.

“If you were in St Helens this afternoon and witnessed the incident then please let us know as information you hold could be vital to our enquiries.

“Similarly, if you have any concerns about any weapons being stored, carried or used in your community, please come forward directly or anonymously and we will take action.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information is urged to contact police on Twitter by DM @MerPolCC quoting reference 21000642742 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

https://www.sthelensstar.co.uk/news/19582820.man-armed-axe-threatened-cyclist-st-helens-town-centre/