A Blackpool man was stopped and arrested on the M65 near Blackburn this afternoon on suspicion of threats to kill and possession of an offensive weapon.

The arrest at 4.15pm saw one lane of the M65 closed for public safety after police received intelligience of the man’s whereabouts.

The 42-year-old man, who was headed into East Lancashire, was also arrested on suspicion of having an article with intent to destroy or damage property.

The section of motorway lane, near Junction 3 at Riley Green, was reopened by police officers after 20 minutes.

Comments unavailable on this story for legal reasons.