Four schools were placed into lockdown as armed police swooped on a quaint market town this afternoon (Fri).

Emergency services rushed to Queen Street in Southwell, Notts., at around 11.52am to reports of a 'concern for safety'.

There have been unconfirmed reports of a gunman and police, firefighters and ambulance crews were all at the scene.

Holy Trinity Church of England Infant School, Lowe's Wong Infant School, Lowe's Wong Junior School and The Minister School all went into lockdown for an hour.

All businesses within the cordon were evacuated and closed while residents were also told to stay indoors.

Photos show a huge police presence with several streets, including the high street, being cordoned off.

At least 10 emergency response vehicles are currently in attendance.

A spokesperson for Nottinghamshire Police said: "Officers are currently in attendance at Queen Street, Southwell, following a concern for safety report at 11.52am today (16 January)."

"The street remains closed as officers deal with the incident. "

"This is an isolated incident with no wider risk to the public."