Two men in their 30s were chased after by student police officers who suspected the pair were carrying a knife in Royton.

At approximately 1am yesterday morning, Monday, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) were called to reports of a disturbance on Market Square.

Two police officers, who are still student officers, attended and were first on the scene.

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The pair then suspected two men in the area were in possession of a "large knife" and as the men began to make off from the square, the officers chased after them on foot down a dark back alleyway.

While the students requested further assistance over their radios, it is alleged the men, aged 31 and 34, then "discarded the weapon" and officers were able to intervene.

The men were then arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and possession of an offensive weapon and remain in custody ahead of being questioned by officers.

Chief inspector Amy Warden, of GMP's Oldham district, said: “The prompt, courageous and well thought out actions of these officers meant that no one was injured.

“This action speaks volumes for the bravery and dedication our officers show on a daily basis to serve and protect the public – something which we will always continue to do."

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