Armed police officers were called to Whitehaven last night after a motorcyclist damaged a van windscreen with a weapon.

People in Woodhouse were urged to stay indoors as officers responded to the incident on Windermere Road, which happened at around 8.30pm.

A police spokesman said: "It is reported that two motorbikes stopped next to an empty, parked van on Windermere Road.

"One of the riders of the bikes then damaged the windscreen with an unknown weapon, then both motorbikes rode off.

"Officers are currently undertaking numerous lines of enquiry to establish exactly what has happened and whether a weapon was involved."

Cumbria Police would like to speak to anyone who may have seen the two bikes, described as black 'superbikes' in the area. The riders were wearing black, with black helmets, and were last seen travelling in the direction of Mirehouse Road.

On Twitter, @CopelandPolice reported: "Thanks to all residents who were aware of this incident for allowing us to deal with forensic recovery and initial enquiries."

The incident was part of a busy night which also saw officers in the Copeland section respond to an incident that saw PAVA spray used on three men following a fight in Whitehaven town centre.

In Woodhouse, residents were warned there was likely to be a heavy police presence in the area as issues were dealt with and investigated.

A tweet from @CopelandPolice read: "#whitehaven we are dealing with a fast moving incident #public are not at risk in the #woodhouse area please assist and remain inside."

A second added: "There will be a heavy #police presence while we secure forensic evidence-the matter is public order related #safeguarding in place."

Anyone who has any information or who was in the area at the time is asked to contact Cumbria Police by email on 101@cumbria.police.uk or call 101.