Police have declared a "major incident" in Southport after reports of a stabbing and a "number of reported casualties".

Police said a knife had been seized and that a man had been detained but urged the public to avoid the area near Hart Street.

In a statement, Merseyside Police said: "We can confirm that emergency services are in Southport following a major incident this morning, Monday 29 July.

"At around 11.50am, we were called to a property on Hart Street to reports of a stabbing.

"There are a number of reported casualties and more details will be confirmed when possible.

"Armed police have detained a male and seized a knife. He has been taken to a police station.

"Please avoid the area while we deal with this incident. There is no wider threat to the public."

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