Alarm in Longton after man spotted walking around village armed with a gun

Village resident Pauline Thompson raised the alarm when she shared pictures of the man with what appeared to be a rifle or shotgun slung over his shoulder.

He was spotted walking along Marsh Lane and Back Lane, prompting police to dispatch patrols to the village to investigate and provide reassurance.

Lancashire Police said the reports have been ‘thoroughly investigated’ and it believes the man was carrying an air rifle in relation to his work.

“There is no threat to the public,” said the force. It did not say whether the man was located and spoken to.

Police statement

A police spokesman said: “We are aware of a picture on social media of a man carrying what was purported to be a firearm in the Back Lane area of Longton.

“The matter has been thoroughly investigated and it is believed it was an air rifle carried in relation to the man’s work. There is no threat to the public.

“We also believe the photo was taken last night (June 25) and put on social media today.

“We do ask people not to speculate to avoid causing alarm. Anyone with any concerns is asked to contact 101.”

Earlier this morning, a local nursery said it was considering going into lockdown as a precaution after the alarming pictures were shared on Facebook.

Donna Walker, who works at Ashleigh Nursery School, said: "We need reassurance that the police have been informed as we have children to keep safe at the nursery on Marsh Lane.

"We may need to follow lockdown procedure.”

Aimee Jones, whose child attends the nursery, added: “It’s very concerning. My child is supposed to be in nursery on Marsh Lane at the moment but I hadn’t taken him when I saw this and I don’t feel comfortable dropping him off until I know what’s going on.”

One family reported seeing the man load the weapon in fields behind their house before continuing to walk along Back Lane towards Marsh Lane.