A BOY was arrested on suspicion of a public order offence on a town centre street , Merseyside Police has confirmed.

The teenager was taken into custody by police who were called to Claughton Street, St Helens on Thursday morning last week.

The arrest followed reports by members of the public about disorder on the street, near to the junction with Barrow Street.

Social media speculation wrongly suggested the police presence was connected to nearby businesses.

A Merseyside Police spokesman said: "Police were called to Claughton Street at 11.35am on Thursday. A 16-year-old boy was taken into custody on suspicion of causing a public order offence following allegations of harassment, alarm or distress.

"The incident and police presence did not involve any nearby businesses."

The boy has since been released under investigation.