Arrest after gunshots reported in Whitegate

Police have arrested a man after gunshots were heard in a Cheshire village. At around 45pm on Monday 24 August, officers were called to reports that shots had been fired in the Beauty Bank area of Whitegate, near Northwich. Specialist firearms officers were deployed to the scene, and a 35-year-old man from Cuddington was arrested nearby on suspicion of possession of a firearm in a public place. A number of searches were undertaken, resulting in the recovery of an air weapon.

Detective Inspector Ross Hamilton, of Northwich CID, said: "Firearms offences are rare in Cheshire, and we treat all reports we receive extremely seriously." He added: "While on this occasion there were no reports of any injuries, the use of firearms in a public place can be extremely dangerous and there are also a number of legal consequences, including significant custodial sentences."

Police appeal for information

Detective Inspector Hamilton said "Enquiries in relation to this incident remain ongoing and I would urge anyone with any information or footage which may aid our enquiries to call us on 101 or visit uk/tell-us quoting IML 2402957." Information can also be reported anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.