POLICE are still waiting to interview a man who drugged himself before holding his ex-girlfriend at knifepoint for five hours.

The 36-year-old, who was critically ill after taking paracetamol at the weekend, was still poorly in Hartlepool General Hospital last night.

He took the pills before his 30-year-old ex-girlfriend called at his home on Sunny Blunts Estate, Peterlee, County Durham, to pick up clothing.

Fearing trouble, she had contacted the police before arriving at about noon on Saturday.

Two officers were deployed, but when they got there the man had armed himself with a knife, grabbed the woman, and taken her into the house.

A five-hour stand-off involving police negotiators and armed officers followed.

He surrendered at about 5.25pm and was arrested as he left the house. The woman was unharmed.

Last night, officers were remain at the man's bedside until he is well enough to speak to them.