CHILDREN who witnessed a frightening armed siege in Ferndown earlier this month were able to see the other side of police after Dorset officers paid them a special visit.

While officers answered the questions from adult residents, children explored the police car, tried on some uniforms and hats and enjoyed colouring in some pictures.

Inspector Simon Perry, of East Dorset Police, said: “Following a highly visible police incident in Coppins Close recently we received feedback that it has caused concerns for residents and that it had worried some of the children living in the street.

“As a result we decided to engage with the local residents by holding a street corner meeting to highlight the role of community policing and encourage interaction with local officers.

“Officers were joined by a local housing officer and together they answered questions in relation to concerns raised by residents.

“We hope that by holding these kind of events it demonstrates that we are fully aware of the impacts our policing operations can have on communities and will do all we can to ensure they do not leave a lasting negative impact, particularly for future generations.

“The feedback from this event was overwhelmingly positive and we hope everyone found the event useful and enjoyable.”

The seven-hour siege involved man armed with a knife, and a woman, who refused to come out of the address and a cordon was put in place to allow specialist officers to deal with the situation and to make inquiries while keeping the public safe.

A 30-year-old local man was arrested on suspicion of burglary and a serious assault and a 31-year-old local woman was arrested on suspicion of burglary.

They were both been released on police bail while investigations continue.