A 19-YEAR-OLD man has been charged after primary schools had to be "locked down" due to a "credible gun threat".

Following reports of a man making threats with a gun, Greater Manchester Police deployed an armed response team around the Billinge and Orrell area of Wigan.

A number of schools, including Newfold Primary, St James' Primary and St Peter's RC High School, all in Orrell, were advised not to release pupils for a short period of time while police tried to find the man.

An investigation continued around Billinge, Orrell, and Skelmersdale, and a man handed himself into Skelmersdale Police Station later that day.

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Following the incident, Harry Daley, 19, of Bankfield, Skelmersdale has now been charged on suspicion of possessing an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

The man has been further charged on suspicion of sending a letter or communication conveying an indecent or offensive message.

Daley has been remanded in police custody ahead of a scheduled appearance at Wigan and Leigh Magistrates Court on Wednesday, April 24.

Detective Inspector Craig Hurst from our Wigan district said: “This incident was undoubtedly a worrying one for the local community and we deployed to the scene along with armed officers as this was a credible threat at the time.

“Once we had established the circumstances of the incident, we acted quickly on the information that we had and apprehended a suspect who had fled back to their home address in Skelmersdale.

“We would like to reassure the public that this is an isolated incident and there is no threat to the wider community.

“I would like to thank the schools in the local area for their assistance, in acting appropriately to protect the children in their care.

“Extra patrol officers have been deployed, both on foot and in patrol cars. These officers will be there over the next few days and they are there to keep you safe, If you have any concerns, they will be happy to provide reassurance and listen to any of your queries.

“If you have any information that could assist officers you should call 0161 856 7094 quoting log number 1906 of 22/04/2024.”