A MAN has been detained after a five hour stand-off with police in North Shields.

Police were called to a house in Howard Street at 2.10pm this afternoon after concerns were raised about the distressed state of a man inside.

Officers tried to speak to him but he threatened to harm himself, police as well as damage the building. As a result armed officers were deployed as a precaution.

A cordon was put in place and Howard Street was closed from Saville Street during the incident.

Police negotiators spoke to the man at length until 7pm when he was detained.

Superintendent Tim Walker said: "This was an isolated incident with one person inside the property throughout.

"The area was cordoned off as a precautionary measure and we had specialist officers, including negotiators, at the scene to bring the incident to a safe conclusion.

"Residents are thanked for their patience and co-operation throughout.

"Officers will be patrolling in the area and I'd urge anyone with concerns to speak to them."

A 21-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of threats to kill.