A PERSON has been arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent following a ‘knife attack’ in Keynsham.

There was a large 999 response to the incident in Aesop Drive, resulting in the area being cordoned off, at around 1.40pm on Sunday, June 9.

One man was taken to hospital with injuries to his hands, which are not believed to be life-threatening.

Armed officers, along with response units, were deployed to the incident and a cordon was put in place.

Avon and Somerset Police said in a statement “We understand there is a great deal of concern among our communities concerning knife crime and residents can expect to see a heightened police presence following this incident.

"We remain dedicated to reducing knife crime and serious violence and we encourage anyone with any questions or concerns to speak with their local Neighbourhood Policing team.

“If you were in the area and witnessed the incident and have not yet spoken to officers, please call 101 and quote reference 5224148569."

West of England Mayor Dan Norris has described seeing a “strong police presence” when driving in the area shortly after the incident.

Mr Norris said: “This is a deeply disturbing incident, and my thoughts are with the victim, their friends and family, as well as the communities that make up this part of Keynsham.

"I was driving along Charlton Road from Pensford around 2.30pm and as I entered Keynsham, I saw many police vehicles, and some ambulances too. Aesop Lane was closed off with a strong police presence, and this will have been reassuring to local people.

"This is another stark reminder of the need to redouble our efforts to tackle knife violence - including its complex causes - and make sure people feel, and actually are, safe and secure.”

Nine people have also been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after two men were taken to hospital following a separate knife-related incident in Bristol on the same day.

The victims, in their 20s, were attacked at around 4.40am near Rawnsley Park, Bristol, on June 9.

They were taken to hospital with knife wounds - where one is in a serious condition.

The nine people arrested on suspicion of attempted murder remain in police custody and Avon and Somerset police believe the individuals are known to each other.

They are appealing for anyone who was in area in the early hours of the morning to come forward.