Armed siege in Ingol as man holds himself hostage using a pitchfork and knife

Police were called to reports of a man walking with a sword on Dovedale Avenue in Ingol this morning (May 22).

The man was found at an address in possession of a pitchfork and knife when officers rushed to the scene at around 8.05am.

Video footage taken by Lois Logan shows armed police surrounding a man who was "holding himself hostage with a pitchfork".

A police negotiator was called to the scene and a cordon was put in place due to concerns for his welfare.

A spokesperson for Lancashire Police said: "It was reported a man was seen walking on the street with a sword.

"Officers attended with the man found at an address in possession of a pitchfork and knife.

"Following concerns for his welfare a cordon has been established with armed officers and a police negotiator at the scene."

15 police cars and an ambulance were spotted in the area, according to eyewitness reports.

Police wearing riot gear also attended the incident.

A spokesperson for the North West Ambulance Service said: "We are in attendance to this area. It is a welfare incident."