Armed police descended on a residential street this afternoon after a man was spotted brandishing a suspected gun.

Police went to Cassino Road in Huyton at 12.40pm today, July 8, following reports of an armed man on a motorbike. Neighbours reported seeing large numbers of police on the street, as well as a helicopter hovering overhead.

When the ECHO arrived on the scene at around 4pm, there was no cordon in place and the police presence had diminished. However, there was a large group of neighbours gathered in front of a house on Cassino Road.

Police have confirmed that they are searching the property in connection with the incident. A 24 year old man has been arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm. He is currently in custody.

One neighbour told the ECHO she heard the helicopter overhead "really loud" at around 2pm and saw police arrive on the scene. She added: "People have been out all afternoon watching it happen."

A concerned mum told the ECHO she was worried about the number of guns on the streets. She said: "I don't let the kids play out as it is. And this just confirms it. They generally just play in each other's houses now. It's not worth the risk."

A spokesperson for Merseyside Police said: "We can confirm officers are currently at a property in Huyton. We were contacted at 12.40pm today, Monday 8 July, following reports a male on a motorbike had been seen in possession of a suspected firearm in the Huyton area.

"Patrols attended and detained a 24-year-old man on Cassino Road on suspicion of possession of a firearm. He is currently in custody. A search of a property on Cassino Road is currently underway."

Chief Inspector Phil Thompson said: “We are resolute in our commitment to remove firearms from our streets and will respond to intelligence from our communities to investigate and, where necessary, bring people to justice.

“I would ask anyone who has information about anyone carrying or storing weapons to contact us either directly or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”