A MAN has been arrested following reports of a "distressing" burglary at a home in Newton-le-Willows this morning. 

It was reported that a man entered a property on Laurel Avenue, Newton-le-Willows, at around 2.30am this morning (Monday, June 5).

Arriving at the property shortly afterward, officers spotted a man outside of a nearby address and arrested him on suspicion of burglary after several stolen items were reported to be found in his pockets.

READ > Family cafe to say goodbye to St Helens after struggles with health and low footfall

'Stolen' items located outside property

Other items are also reported to have been located in the back garden of a nearby property, while two knives from the victim's house were seized in the back garden of the address.

The 29-year-old suspect from Whiston was taken to a police station in Merseyside where he remains in custody. 

'Very distressing incident'

Detective Inspector Tracey Martin said: “This was a very distressing experience for the victim who was left shocked after having an intruder in their home.

“Thankfully our officers were able to make a swift arrest at a nearby address after receiving a 999 call in the area. 

“I hope this arrest shows that such crimes will not be tolerated in our communities. 

“We would encourage people to come forward if you know anything about suspected burglaries where you are so we can continue to take immediate action. We’ll act on all calls or information provided.”

Anyone with any information on this incident is asked to contact us @MerPolCC on Twitter, ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’ on Facebook or ring 101 with reference 23000481726.

You can also pass information via the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or via their online form at: https://crimestoppers-uk.org