Stabbing spree leaves a number of casualties ‘together with kids’

As many as six children are feared to be seriously hurt after a knifeman ‘stabbed multiple people at a holiday club’.

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. I think [the ‘holiday club’] do classes for children.’

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.

Multiple people ‘including children’ have been stabbed after a man went on a knifing spree ‘at a holiday club’ this morning

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

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

‘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.’

This is a breaking news story. More to follow.