A doctors’ surgery was set on fire and a member of staff attacked in a shocking series of events this lunchtime (Tuesday).
Ampleforth Surgery is now closed following the incident.
A North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: “Police received a call at around 12.25pm on Tuesday 29 August to report of a man who had caused damaged to the surgery by setting fire to it and assaulted a member of staff.
“He was also in possession of a knife and indicated that he intended to harm himself.
“All three emergency services attended the scene, a cordon was put in place to protect members of the public, and police officers negotiated with the suspect to help resolve the situation safely.
“At around 1.35pm police officers restrained the man and he was arrested and taken into custody.”
The man was arrested on suspicion of arson, affray and assault.
Ampleforth Surgery
The fire was extinguished by North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service.
Crews from Helmsley, Kirkbymoorside, Malton and Thirsk were called to the fire which resulted in damage to the lobby area.
A North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service spokesperson said: “Crews used a hose reel jet, four breathing apparatus, a thermal imaging camera, positive pressure ventilation fan and various ladders.
“One male was left in the care of paramedics and police. The cause is believed to be deliberate.”
Ampleforth Surgery revealed it was closed in a Facebook post.
It said: “Due to a serious fire Ampleforth Surgery is closed for the foreseeable future.
“Due to a serious fire Ampleforth Surgery is closed for the foreseeable future.
“Please bear with us.
“If you urgently need a prescription please visit a local pharmacy. Helmsley & Kirkbymoorside Pharmacies are aware of the situation.”
On its website, the surgery says: “Ampleforth Surgery is closed today Tuesday 29th August due to unforeseen circumstances.”
The surgery, also known as Ampleforth & Hovingham Surgeries, was last inspected by the Care Quality Commission in 2016, with a review in July this year. It is rated Good.