Emergency services were called to the Folly Lane site of the Herefordshire College in Hereford this afternoon following reports of a man seen carrying a crossbow.

A text message was sent to students asking them to remain on the campus until the incident had concluded.

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The message sent to students earlier this afternoon (supplied)

It was later reported that a man had been arrested in a town centre pub possibly in connection with the incident. The suspect was arrested on Friday, said West Mercia Police.

The force said the incident was an isolated one and officers would remain in the area to reassure students and the community.

In a statement, the colleges said: "On the advice of the police, all three colleges went into lockdown on Friday afternoon as a precaution. We would like to thank all staff and students who responded calmly and swiftly."

It said students and staff had been able to leave at approximately 4pm, adding that its colleges would be open as usual next week.