SCHOOL children saw a man with blood on him and ‘with possibly a knife’ outside a Christchurch shop. 

The two pupils were in Somerford Road, outside Poundland, at around 8am on Thursday, May 2 when they saw the man who did not make any threats. 

It was later reported to the police at 9.30am when the pupils were in school and officers carried out searches for the man. 

Searches included gathering CCTV footage in the area and speaking to schools, pupils and parents to find out more. 

A spokesman for Christchurch police said: “The man the pupils saw has now been identified and we are reassured that there is no ongoing risk to the wider community and no offences were committed.  

“We will continue to carry out patrols in the Somerford area and would ask anyone with information or concerns to please make contact with us.” 

Meanwhile, later that afternoon, The Grange School was put on lockdown at the end of the school day after a man was reportedly seen with a knife in the estate. 

After searches, it was established the incident was a false alarm with good intent and there was nothing to worry about, Christchurch police said. 

The spokesman added: “We would like to thank members of the school community for their patience and understanding during this well-intentioned but false alarm incident.”