Emergency services called to distressing welfare incident in Fleetwood's Lord Street

Emergency services were called to Lord Street in the town centre in response to a ‘concern for welfare incident’ outside The Eating Plaice chippy around 2.45pm.

A vulnerable man in the throes of a mental health crisis reportedly tried to take his own life but was rescued by a local barber and shop worker, as officers and paramedics hurried to the scene.

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The pair took swift action to prevent him from coming to harm and restrained him until police and ambulance crews arrived. He was taken to hospital and is now receiving “appropriate care and support”, say Lancashire Police.

“The Barber at Empire is a true hero,” said a woman who helped rescue the man. “He saved another man’s life today”.

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The force has since thanked those who came to the man’s aid and ensured he remained safe while they awaited the arrival of the emergency services.

In a post on Facebook, it said: “Following an incident on Lord Street, Fleetwood on Monday afternoon, we would like to thank the members of the local community who stepped in prior to police arrival.

“I appreciate this was an upsetting incident to witness and for those involved but due to the publics intervention, the male concerned is now receiving appropriate care and support.

“To those who assisted, thank you.”

A police spokesperson later confirmed: "It was a concern for welfare and a man has been taken to a place of safety."

North West Ambulance Service were approached for comment.