Police patrols have been increased in the Fulwood area of Preston following reports that a man had been seen with a knife.

Police were called at around 4.55pm today (Monday 27 January) to reports the man had been seen on Blackpool Road, before making off in the direction of Plungington Road. There have been no reports of injuries and there is no trace of the man, however enquiries are ongoing.

A spokesperson for the police said they do not believe this incident is linked to the assaults and robberies that occurred in the Deepdale area on Sunday between 3.15pm and 7pm.

Read more: 16-year-old boy arrested after two stabbings and robbery in Deepdale

However, patrols have been increased in the Fulwood area and a section 60 will be in place tonight. It came into effect at 6pm and will last until 3am tomorrow (Tuesday).

Inspector Azz Khan, of Preston Police, said: “Although we have had no reports of anyone being injured we take all reports of this nature seriously, and as a result we have put section 60 stop and search powers into place this evening.

“If anyone has information, or knows who the man may have been, we would ask them to get in touch.” 

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting log number 1001 of January 27. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.