A TOWN centre apartment block was put into lockdown last night after two men with knives allegedly chased a man, police have said.

Armed officers descended on Skyline Plaza, on Alencon Link, shortly after 5.30pm on Tuesday evening after getting reports that a man was being chased by two men with knives.

They surrounded the building and brought in dog units, as they searched the building, but did not find anyone. Officers were seen returning to their cars and leaving the scene at approximately 6.30pm.

A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said: "We were called at 5.38pm on 22 June to reports of an offensive weapon incident at an address on Alencon Link, Basingstoke, after a man reported being chased by two men with knives.

"Due to the nature of the call, armed officers were deployed and put a containment on the building until it could be confirmed to be safe.

"A full search was conducted but no one was located."

Several armed police officers with riot shields were seen forming a protective ring around the building, a stones throw from The Malls and Basingstoke station, as well as the adjoining nursery.

At least five marked police cars were spotted in the area, with several unmarked vehicles also on site.