The man at the centre of a north Norfolk church siege is carrying a knife, police have said.

Officers were called to St Martins Church in Overstrand just before 4pm on Thursday following reports a man in "significant mental health distress" was alone inside. 

They have since confirmed they believe he is carrying a knife. 

READ MORE: Live updates amid ongoing police incident at village church

Police cars have lined the street outside the churchPolice cars were seen lining the street outside the church (Image: Denise Bradley)

Specialist-trained police negotiators are currently at the scene and speaking to him.

Other resources - including firearms officers - have also been in attendance for most of the day.

The force has said it does not believe there is a wider risk to the public - but people are being warned to "stay away".

The nature of the incident has not yet been confirmedThe nature of the incident has not yet been confirmed (Image: Denise Bradley)

Chief Inspector Nick Paling issued a statement this afternoon nearly 24 hours after officers were first called to the scene.

“We would like to thank the public for their continued assistance and patience," he said.

"Please stay away from the scene to allow emergency service and traffic to move around freely.

Locals have theorised the man may have a knifePolice believe he is carrying a knife (Image: Denise Bradley)

"We may need to close the road temporarily, and for short periods of time, but we’ll try to open it again as soon as we can.

“I know how concerning this is for the local community and I’d ask people to please bear with us, we don’t know how long this will continue but please know we will do everything possible to bring this to a safe conclusion as swiftly and carefully as possible."