Police mounted a full scale manhunt for a man who allegedly threatened members of the public with a knife in Poole yesterday.

Officers are appealing for witnesses and anyone with information to come forward following the incident, which took place in Sterte Avenue in the Holes Bay area at 6.49am on Saturday.

Armed police attended and searched the area. The NPAS helicopter also assisted in the search.

Nobody was injured during the incident.

A 29-year-old man, of an unknown address, has been arrested relation and is helping officers with their enquiries.

Poole South Neighbourhood Inspector Shawn Whitley said: “I would like to thank members of the public for their assistance during the search.

“Even though a man has been arrested, I would urge any witnesses to the incident who have not yet spoken with police to come forward and contact us.”

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101 quoting incident number 4:153. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.

The police helicopter was seen hovering over Poole throughout the morning.

A Sterte resident earlier told the Daily Echo a manhunt was underway, with armed police involved.

He added that he had seen two marked armed response vehicles and one unmarked, as well as two marked patrol vehicles.

It has now been reported that a man was arrested on railway tracks at Poole, an incident suspected to be linked to long delays between Bournemouth and Wareham.

This has not been confirmed by police.