POLICE launched a dramatic search for a missing armed man across Hampshire last night.

Officers deployed the police helicopter in the hunt for the 28-year-old over concerns for his safety.

Police said that their search centred on the ara of Bishop's Waltham, pictured below, of the county

The man, from Swanmore, has since been found.

Daily Echo:

He was then arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon.

In a series of tweets, Winchester Cops posted: "We just wanted to update you on some police activity in Bishop's Waltham.

"We were in the area carrying out a search for a 28-year-old missing person.

Daily Echo:

"The man, from Swanmore, was believed to be in the Bishop's Waltham area, and we, along with his family, were concerned about his welfare.

"We deployed to the area and also enlisted the help of our colleagues in NPAS (National Police Air Service) to help us locate him.

"We have since found the man and arrested him on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon.

"No one was injured during the incident.

"We know there was a lot of us in the area, so we just wanted to let you know why."

The Daily Echo has asked Hampshire Constabulary for any further updates.