A MAN has spoken of his shock after filming a fight between two youths - and witnessing one of the teenagers appearing to drop a knife.

The 28-year-old, who wishes to remain anonymous, got off the bus at 9.30am on Tuesday, November 5 when a skirmish broke out on Bickerstaffe Street, St Helens outside TJ Hughes.

Two youths with hoods hiding their faces were involved in the violence, with one in a blue coat aiming punches and kicks.

People started filming the fight, but then started to shout after one youth appeared to drop a blade on the floor after reaching into his pocket.

Cries of "knife, knife, put the knife down" can be heard on the video.

St Helens Star:

A knife is dropped on the floor

The boys then run off towards Victoria Square.

Police have confirmed they are investigating.

After the video was posted on social media on Wednesday it went viral, with more than 1,000 people sharing it.

Speaking to the Star, the witness said: "This is a serious problem now with these knives. In two months I've witness a boy being stabbed near my home and now this.

"It was first thing in the morning and this happened.

"This isn't a little thing this now it's happening more and more and people are just going to be too scared to go out.

"Nothing will stop this apart from more police really and parents to really look at what their kids are doing.

"A lad got stabbed yesterday near Sherdley Park, this isn't a one time thing."

In a statement, Merseyside Police said: "We are appealing for information after reports of a fight in St Helens on Tuesday morning (5 November 2019).

"We received a report at 9.25am that an altercation had taken place on Bickerstaffe Street, close to TJ Hughes.

"It was also reported that one of the males involved was in possession of a knife, and dropped it before picking it up.

"Enquiries into the incident are ongoing and we are appealing for anyone with information on the incident or those involved to get in touch."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Merseyside Police social media desk via Twitter @MerPolCC or Facebook Merseyside Police CC. You can also call 101 quoting incident reference 19100644890 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or via their online form at: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/give-information.