ARMED police were called to an area of Bournemouth following a large number of calls raised concerns over a man with a knife.

Dorset Police received reports of a man with a knife in the Poole Lane area harming himself, chasing after cars and causing damage at 7.40pm on Monday, August 16.

Officers, including firearms units, attended and a 29-year-old local man was arrested in relation to the incident.

He was taken to hospital for treatment.

Dorset Police have issued a message of reassurance to the community that an investigation is taking place.

Anyone with ongoing concerns should contact their local neighbourhood policing team, a senior officer said.

Chief Inspector Danny Thompson, of Dorset Police, said: “Our Force Command Centre received a large number of calls in a short space of time from members of the public about the incident.

“We are grateful for all the information received and would like to reassure our communities that the incident has now been dealt with and an investigation into the circumstances is taking place.

“I am aware that this occurrence has caused alarm to many people who witnessed it. Please contact your local neighbourhood team with any remaining concerns.

“Also, I would like to thank everyone for their cooperation during this fast-moving incident.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 16:697.

Alternatively, to stay anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.