An attempted robbery caused "very significant" disturbance on a residential Darlington street this morning. 

The corner of Gladstone Street and Greenbank Road, near Darlington town centre, was cordoned off this morning (Thursday, May 9), after reports of shouting and disturbance late last night. 

Police have revealed that they suspect the incident was an attempted robbery. with one man having sustained facial injuries. 

Spots of blood are visible on the pavement of Greenbank Road.

The cordon remains in place, and police have requested any witnesses get in touch to help with their inquiries. 

A spokesperson for Durham Constabulary said: "Police are appealing for witnesses following reports of a suspected attempted robbery in Darlington.

"The incident happened shortly after midnight today (Thursday, May 9) at the junction of Gladstone Street and Greenbank Road.

"One man sustained facial injuries.

"The footpaths where the incident is believed to have taken place remain closed off.

"An investigation is ongoing.

"Officers are treating this as an isolated incident and would like to reassure the public that there is no risk to the wider community.

"They would also like to thank residents and business owners for their patience while investigators examine the scene.

"Anyone with any information is asked to contact Durham Constabulary on 101, quoting incident reference 6 of May 9."

Businesses behind the cordon are currently unable to open, and have been told by police that the cordon is unlikely to be lifted until around noon today. 

Nigel Dowson, owner of Jigsaw hairdressers on Gladstone Street said: "Something very significant has clearly happened.

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"We’ve been told we’re not able to open the business until 11 or 12 at the earliest. It’s very frustrating and disruptive but we obviously need to abide by what the police are telling us."

Gary Wardell, owner of Barry’s Barbers on Gladstone Street added: "I got a phone call at about quarter to eight this morning to say the street had been cordoned off from Greenbank Road to past the barbers shop.

"We’ve been told not to open until 11 or 12. I’ve no idea what’s gone on, but we can’t open until all of this is cleared up."