Police surround the church because they are concerned about the presence of a man inside

Armed police attended an ongoing incident at a church in a coastal village, fearing for a man inside.

Norfolk Police were called to Overstrand, near Cromer, just before 4:00 p.m. BST on Thursday following reports that a man in his 40s was alone inside St Martin’s Church on Cromer Road.

Law enforcement described the man as being in a state of “distress” and was believed to be carrying a knife.

Specialist police negotiators were on site and in conversation with him, with the church safely contained.

Police said there did not appear to be a wider threat to the public.

Ch Inspector Nick Paling said: “We would like to thank the public for their continued help and patience.

“Please stay away from the scene to allow emergency services and traffic to move freely.

“We may have to close the road temporarily and for short periods, but we will try to reopen it as soon as possible.

“I know how concerning this is for the local community and I would ask people to be patient with us. We don’t know how long this will continue, but please know that we will do everything we can to bring this matter to a conclusion. a safe and rapid conclusion and with the greatest possible care.”

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