An axe-wielding man has been arrested and taken to hospital after he was allegedly involved in a brawl in Downham.

The man, aged in his 40s, armed himself with the weapon after he was assaulted by a group of men in Downham Way today (January 22).

Emergency services were called by alarmed members of the public at around 8.20am, who saw the man carrying the axe.

London Ambulance Service paramedics took him to a south London hospital for treatment to his injuries sustained during the assault and police arrested him in connection with the incident.

Police posted a photo of the axe on Twitter, which was seized shortly after the man’s arrest.

Downham officers tweeted: "Male arrested earlier in Downham Way by @MPSDownham officers after he had threatened members of the public with an axe."

A Met Police spokesman said: “Enquiries are ongoing to trace the whereabouts of a group of men who inflicted injuries on this man prior to him arming himself with a weapon.”

Did you see what happened? Call the news desk on 07787273806 or email harriet.collier@london.newsquest.co.uk.