UK school on lockdown following dramatic shooting

Highcliffe School in Christchurch, Dorset, was the scene of a dramatic lockdown at midday, after a gunman ‘fired shots at school maintenance staff’.

A police spokesman said at the time: ‘Police were called at 12.06pm to reports that an air weapon had been fired at groundsmen working on fencing surrounding Highcliffe School in Christchurch.

‘Police officers including armed response units are conducting a search of the area. Dorset Police would like to reassure parents there is no risk to the children at the school, who are being kept in the school building.’

A spokesperson for the school later confirmed that no one had been hurt in the incident, while a message on the school's website said that children were "safe".

"There is no need for parents or students to be alarmed," it added.

Following the incident a police spokesperson said:

"Police were called to reports that an air weapon had been fired at groundsmen working on fencing surrounding Highcliffe School in Christchurch.

"Police officers, including armed response units, attended and conducted a search of the area.

"A 26-year-old man from Christchurch has been arrested for firearms related offences and is currently assisting police with their enquiries. A number of air pellets were found in the area."

Dorset Police confirmed to The Independent that a 26-year-old man had been arrested following the incident.