Southport stabbing: Knifeman's rampage leaves multiple casualties in major incident as locals claim 'somebody's been stabbing children'

Children are feared to be among multiple casualties hurt by a knifeman during an attack in Southport.

Armed police officers detained a man and seized a knife after the attack that left multiple people wounded in Southport, Merseyside.

Officers urged people to avoid the area around Hart Street but said there was 'no wider threat' to the public. 

A staff member at The Bridge Cafe on Hart Street told MailOnline: 'We were told somebody's been stabbing children. 

'It's chocka. It's all cordoned off, police cars at every junction. Parents are stood outside waiting.'

An air ambulance was seen in a nearby car park and people in the area said local Whatsapp groups told neighbors to 'lock your windows and doors', the Liverpool Echo reported.

Merseyside Police said: 'We can confirm that emergency services are in Southport following a major incident this morning, Monday, July 29.

'At around 11.50am, we were called to a property on Hart Street to reports of a stabbing.

'There are a number of reported casualties and more details will be confirmed when possible.

'Armed police have detained a male and seized a knife. He has been taken to a police station.

'Please avoid the area while we deal with this incident. There is no wider threat to the public.'

North West Ambulance Service said: 'We're attending a major incident on Hart Street, Southport following reports of multiple stabbings in which we have dispatched multiple resources.

'We're assessing the situation and working with emergency partners.'

This is a breaking news story. More to follow.