Police declare major incident in Southport town centre

A major incident has closed off Saunders Street in Southport.

Forensics, Merseyside Police Matrix units and the police helicopter have been seen across Southport this evening.

Saunders Street has now been closed off and a large cordon around the area has been set up with residents being told to stay in doors and keep out of the way of police.

Earlier in the evening officers could be seen throughout Southport town centre on the lookout for a suspect.

The exact nature of the incident is yet to be revealed although neighbouring properties in The Saunders Street area report hearing gunshots.
This is unconfirmed and an update is expected to follow