POLICE have arrested a 31-year-old man following an incident in Barrow.

There was a large police presence in High Street and Manchester Street between 1.15pm and 2.45pm today near The Mail's office.

Following the arrest of a 31-year-old man, a search was carried out at a flat in Manchester Street.

Police blocked cars and pedestrians in the area.

A cordon was in place between The Diamond and Rawlinson Street.

Access to streets including Manchester Street was also restricted.

A police spokeswoman said: “A search has been conducted at a flat in Manchester Street, Barrow this afternoon, in relation to an incident where a man aged 31 has been arrested on suspicion of possessing an imitation firearm.

“As a precaution, armed officers were deployed to the scene.”

All roads have since been reopened.

More to follow.