STAFF at a psychiatric centre suffered stab wounds during an incident involving a patient.

Police and paramedics were called to Cygnet Fountains centre in Pleasington Close, Blackburn, to reports a patient had attacked members of staff and another patient.

Police said a man in his 40s was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and is in police custody.

The police spokesman said five people were attacked with scissors and suffered stab wounds, at 4.10pm on Sunday.

He said: “They were taken to Royal Blackburn Hospital to be checked over. “Fortunately none of their injuries are believed to be serious.”

Lancashire Telegraph:

Witnesses said up to nine police vehicles, including a van, and three ambulances were at the scene.

Officers remained there throughout the afternoon and evening and were still on site at 9.30pm.

Police confirmed the incident took place inside the hospital and not on the road.

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Lancashire Telegraph:

One Pleasington Close resident said: “It was very unsettling. I saw a member of staff walk out with a bandage across her head.

“A police officer told me a patient had attacked members of staff.

“My neighbour was told to keep her doors locked because she was on her own. We were all really worried. I was concerned for my grandchild.”

An ambulance service spokesman said an advanced paramedic, two ambulances and a rapid response vehicle were sent to the scene.

A spokesman for Cygnet Fountains said: “We can confirm a patient confronted four members of staff and another patient on Sunday evening.

“Police were called immediately and took the patient into custody, and we informed all relevant authorities.

“No injuries were life threatening and all individuals received the necessary medical treatment.

“We want to thank all staff – including those who came in at short notice to support the service – for working so effectively and professionally.

“We have already launched a full investigation and will continue to have senior managers on-site to ensure patients and staff receive all appropriate support.”

Cygnet Fountains is a 32 bed high-dependency inpatient rehabilitation service for men who have severe and enduring mental illness and who may have been detained under the Mental Health Act.