A teenager with a machete was arrested in Coalville Park as he tried to escape from the police.

The youth was chased down by officers who were praised for their actions and showed 'courage and determination' to make sure he did not get away.

The 17-year-old had the weapon taken from him by Coalville Police after the suspect was spotted on CCTV.

The incident happened last Thursday (June 3) in the park off London Road and enquiries are ongoing.

A machete is a broad blade used either as an agricultural implement similar to an axe, or in combat like a long-bladed knife. The blade is typically 12 to 18 inches long.

A spokeswoman for Leicestershire Police said: "A 17-year-old youth was arrested in Coalville Park, London Road, during the evening of Thursday 3 June.

"Police were called to the area by the local CCTV camera operators after they saw a youth possibly in possession of a bladed weapon.

"After a short foot chase the suspect was arrested and a machete was recovered from him.

"He was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon.

"He has since been released pending consultation with the youth offending service and enquiries continue."

A tweet from North West Leicestershire Police over the weekend gave more details about the incident.

It reads: "Officers were called to a report of a male in the park with a machete.

"Displaying courage and determination they detained him as he tried to escape.

"No injures were sustained and the suspect was dealt with robustly in custody."