Scores of police descended on Thornhill earlier this afternoon after a man was spotted with an axe near a park.

Residents reported seeing two men on a motorbike, one of whom was carrying an axe, at the park on Lydgate Road just before 4pm.

A police helicopter was spotted circling overhead as officers launched a hunt for the suspect.

The force has now appealed for witnesses.

The police helicopter was seen hovering over SouthamptonThe police helicopter was seen hovering over Southampton (Image: NQ)

A spokesperson for the force said: "We were called at 3.42pm to a report of two males on a black and purple motorbike in Lydgate Road, Southampton, with one of them reportedly carrying an axe.

"Officers are currently investigating this report to identify the males on the bike.

"If anyone has any information, please call 101 quoting reference 1482 of 12/7."

Police have asked for witnesses after the incidentPolice have asked for witnesses after the incident (Image: NQ)

A Thornhill resident who wished to remain anonymous said: "It was swarming with police here this afternoon, must have been about 4pm.

"I was sat outside my house minding my own business when some police cars pulled up. An officer told me to get back inside my house otherwise I'd be arrested, which seemed odd. I think he must have been panicking."

The resident told the Echo that police told him a man was seen with a weapon in the bushes.

"I couldn't believe it really, it's not something you see every day.

"I've lived here all my life and Thornhill never used to be like this.

"Everything seems to be fine for a few months and then suddenly a few things will happen and then it will be fine again, but it's not how it used to be."

Hampshire Constabulary is yet to confirm to the Echo whether there has been any arrests.