(Update) Man talked down from roof by specialist negotiator after 3 and half hour stand off

Police were called at around midday today after reports that a male had climbed onto the roof of a block of flats in Portsea, Portsmouth.

Officers placed a cordon around the block of flats between St Georges Road and Butcher Street after concerns around the male’s safety and to ensure the safety of the public.

Firefighters from Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service and paramedics from South Central Ambulance Service were seen a short distance from the incident, along with an aerial ladder platform from Southsea who was believed to be on standby for the incident in case difficulties occurred when the male came down.

A male was seen speaking with the person on the roof who we understand to be a police negotiator after approx 3 and a half hours the negotiator managed to talk the male to come down.

The male then climbed down the scaffolding to the rear of the flats saying ‘I’m sorry for what I have done and really appreciate you listening to me and helping me.’

He was then led to safety by the negotiator and police who walked him to a car where we believe he is now getting the help and support that he requires.