ARMED police rushed to Sutton Heath yesterday afternoon, Thursday, after reports of two men carrying shotguns.

Officers were sent to Sherdley Road at around 3.50pm near to a pathway on Elephant Lane where the men were allegedly in possession of the two weapons.

After an "extensive" search, the police operation was "stood down".

A Merseyside Police spokesman said: "We can confirm that armed officers were in the St Helens area yesterday afternoon, Thursday 6 December, following the unconfirmed sighting of a firearm.

"Armed officers were deployed and following an extensive and negative area search, the operation was stood down. No further reports were received."

Paramedics were also called to the scene in a rapid response vehicle, an ambulance and a Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) but were not required.

If you have any information or know who witnessed this incident contact @MerPolCC with reference 565 or you can report to @CrimestoppersUK on 0800 555 111.