AN armed robbery suspect was chased by members of the public and police in Leigh town centre this afternoon.

A man targeted the Co-Op Travel Agents on Bradshawgate before being pursued.

Armed police and a police helicopter were called to the scene just after 1.55pm.

Police later arrested a 20-year-old man and he was detained. A weapon was also seized from nearby.

A police spokesman said: “With assistance of members of the public who gave chase to the offender, a male was detained nearby, and a weapon recovered, along with other evidence. 

“At this time the male remains in custody for questioning.”

Police said no one was injured in the incident.

A spokesman added. “Some schools locally locked their doors for a short time as a precaution, but there was no risk to children and this was quickly lifted.”

Anyone who may have witnessed this incident is asked to contact police 101 quoting incident number 976 of 28/02/18.