Warnings after reports of knifeman 'chasing girls'

A warning has been released after reports of a man "chasing girls with a knife".

Councillor Joanne Stewart is urging people to avoid the man after hearing from residents in West Reading.

She posted on social media, explaining the man had been seen "chasing girls" and in possession of a knife around Prospect Park, Tilehurst and Calcot.

Thames Valley Police confirmed a 30-year-old man from Reading was arrested and later released on conditional bail.

A force spokesperson explained they received reports of a man in possession of an offensive weapon at around 20:10 GMT on Thursday in Belmont Road, Reading.

He was arrested on suspicion of possession of a knife or bladed article in a public place and using threatening words or behaviour with intent to cause harassment, alarm or distress.

Councillor Stewart said news of an incident involving a man with a knife had been circulating on community pages.

One resident posted saying: "It is horrific. I have two daughters and I'm not allowing them to go out on their own because of it."

Councillor Stewart is warning people not to "take the law into their own hands" and report any sightings to police.

She said: "I felt the need to remind people, they seemed to be getting in a bit of a frenzy.

"People don't want it to become a witch hunt, social media is a useful tool, but it can be dangerous at the same time.

"There is a person involved who clearly needs help, and I really hope someone is giving that individual help."

Reading Borough Council has been approached for comment.

King's Academy Prospect, a secondary school in Tilehurst, confirmed its safeguarding team had been notified.

Thames Valley Police said its investigations were continuing and asked anyone with information to get in touch.

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