Armed police swooped on a County Durham village after reports of a man believed to be armed with a knife, this afternoon (Wednesday, February 7).

Officers were called to an address on Hawthorne Street, Easington Colliery, at noon after reports of a disturbance. 

After a brief standoff, the man was arrested and a knife, crossbow and firearm were seized.

A Durham Police spokesperson said: "Police were called at 12pm today following reports of a disturbance at an address on Hawthorne Street, Easington Colliery.

"The incident involved a man reported to be armed with a knife.

"A number of officers, including armed officers, attended the scene and placed a brief containment at the property.

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"A man in his late 50s was arrested on suspicion of affray and remains in police custody.

"A knife, crossbow and a firearm were recovered at the scene.

"No-one was injured during the incident."