Armed police have been called in to an operation near York Minster this afternoon.
A man suspected to have a gun has been arrested in an operation close to the cathedral. Two other arrests have been made.
One witness said they saw a man was arrested near the main doorway of the Minster.
Several police vans and many officers were stationed outside the West Front.
A North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: “Following a reported threat made by the driver of a black Renault Megane car towards a man riding a bicycle on Lendal Bridge in York at around 2.20pm today (Thursday), Firearms Response Unit officers carried out an arrest on Museum Street near to York Minster at 3.12pm.
“A 25-year-old man from Leeds has been arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm and affray. He remains in custody for questioning.
“Two other men, aged 24 and 22, have also been arrested in connection with ongoing investigation.”
One witness said that one of those arrested had an Uber delivery bag.
Another told YorkMix they had seen a suspect splayed on the ground while armed police pointed a gun at him, close to the entrance to the Minster.
A crowd gathered outside to watch the drama unfold. The police helicopter was also seen overhead.
No one was hurt. A York Minster spokesperson directed our inquiries to North Yorkshire Police but said: “All is fine at the Minster. Everyone is well.”
The cathedral remained open to the public, although it is due to close for Evensong.
Police are appealing for witnesses. If you have any information about the incident, contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 1, and speak to the Force Control Room.
Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
Please quote reference number 12220019791 when providing details.
