Fleetwood man arrested by armed police after reports of gunman opening fire on a home last night

Armed response units were called to Westhead Walk - a cul-de-sac off Hatfield Avenue – after a gunman reportedly opened fire on a house at around 10.40pm.

Witnesses who heard shots being fired reported seeing a silver-coloured car make off from the scene.

Roads around the estate were blocked off and the police helicopter was mobilised as a hunt for the gunman got underway.

A 46-year-old man from Fleetwood was later arrested and is being held in custody on suspicion of possession of firearm offences.

Officers remained at the scene overnight where one of the homes was cordoned off with police tape.

A police spokesman told the Gazette: “We were called to reports of shots being fired in the Westhead Walk area, with a silver-coloured car then making off from the scene.

“Officers, including armed officers, attended and will remain in the area for some time.

"A man has since been arrested and is helping with our enquiries.”

Neighbours reported hearing multiple shots fired but police say no injuries have been reported.

The force said patrols will be stepped up in the area over the coming in days in response to the incident.

Det Supt Becky Smith added: “First and foremost we appreciate that this incident will have caused concern in the community and we would like to reassure residents that we are taking it extremely seriously.

“This type of crime will not be tolerated in Lancashire and a thorough and robust investigation has been launched, utilising all available resources.

“There will be an increased police presence in the area over the coming days and anybody with concerns is welcome to speak to an officer.

“As part of our investigation we are now asking for anybody with information to come forward.

"In particular we would like to hear from anybody who saw the silver-coloured car or its occupants, or anybody with CCTV, mobile phone or doorbell footage which shows anything suspicious.

“Perhaps you saw the car or its occupants, before, during or after the incident.

"Maybe you know who is responsible or have other information. Or perhaps you have footage which will help us piece together exactly what happened and who is responsible.

“Whatever you know, please make contact, either by calling us directly on 101 or contacting Crimestoppers anonymously.”

Anybody with information can call 101 quoting log 1598 of May 22 or independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or at crimestoppers-uk.org.