Armed police have detained a man and seized a knife after number of people were injured in a reported stabbing near Liverpool.

Emergency services were called to the “major incident” at a property on Hart Street, Southport at about 11.50am on Monday.

Merseyside Police said it had received reports of a stabbing.

The force went on: “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.”