CHILDREN and staff have been evacuated from a Wirral school after reports of a man armed with a knife making threats.

Police were called to Darlington Close, in Wallasey just before midday.

A number of neighbouring properties have been evacuated. It is believed that the man had forced his way into a property and that it is domestic related.

A Merseyside Police spokesman said: "There are road closures in place in the Darlington Close, Darlington Street, Church Street, Water Street and the Union Street area while the incident is ongoing and we advise people to avoid the area at this time. Children and staff from Egremont Primary school have been evacuated and taken to a place of safety."

Officers are at the scene with specially trained negotiators.

The spokesman added: "We would like to thank residents for their patience while police attend the incident."