Police shot a man dead in Worcestershire on Christmas Eve.

West Midlands Ambulance Service called armed officers to an address in Redditch at about 2pm after concerns were raised for the safety of a man with a knife.

West Mercia police said attempts were made over several hours to deal with the incident, but that the man, 39, was shot at about 7.40pm.

The force’s assistant chief constable, Grant Wills, said: “We do not underestimate the shock and concern this may cause the local community and I want to reassure residents that we are following all appropriate procedures, this included making an immediate referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), as is mandatory and right.

“We will support their investigation, which will include providing all information we hold, including body-worn camera footage.”