A NUMBER of roads were closed off and a large police presence reported following an incident on Woodchurch Road in Birkenhead. 

Multiple police vehicles were seen in the area around the Royal Hotel pub from around 1pm on New Year's Day (Monday, January 1) with a section of Woodchurch Road cordoned off as well as the nearby Bennetts Hill and Heathfield Road.

Wirral Globe:

One eye witness said: "It's been going on since 2pm there - at least 12 (police) vehicles there. Road cordoned off by Bennetts Hill and by the Cock and Pullet too."

A spokesperson for Merseyside Police confirmed that armed police had been present at the scene.

A spokesperson said: "We can confirm at around 1.40pm today, Monday, January 1, we were called to concerns for the safety of a man at an address on Woodchurch Road, Birkenhead. 

"A 44-year-old man has since been arrested for possession of drugs and affray.

"Road closures which were in place around the area, have now been lifted. Thank you for your patience while this incident was dealt with."