A policeman reportedly 'cuddled' a man moments after he had earlier chased an officer in Oakham town centre with an axe.

The incident last night has raised questions over the support offered to veterans in the country.

It follows police last month attending to a man who brandished a sword in public, also in Oakham.

Leicestershire Police were called shortly before 8pm last night by a member of the public "concerned for the welfare of a man in Alwyn Close, Oakham."

Police told Nub News: "Officers attended the scene and found a man inside the address in a distressed state.

"The man was in possession of an axe and threatened an officer before chasing him to High Street where he was detained.

"The man, 38, was arrested on suspicion of assault and remains in police custody."

The statement added: "No one was injured during the incident."

Witnesses said on social media police the incident took place in pouring rain. Police were equipped with tasers but there were no reports of them being used.

Gina Edwards posted: "When I drove past about 8.30 tonight it was very sad to see a fantastic police man was trying to comfort this man by giving him a cuddle. Before anyone says anything about social distancing this man clearly needed some kindness. The man was clearly upset."

Chris Poole posted: "I drove past at 8:15 and there was definitely an axe, outside the menswear shop and tasers! Yes he may have had some issues and needed a hug and a chat, but still, there was an axe."

Tracey Taylor, admin of Oakham Armed Forces Veteran Breakfast Club at British Armed Forces Veterans, commented: "In the last few months there has been a spike in mental health especially among Veterans in this area.

"Some of their PTSD is so complex that it's hard for anyone to get the right help. They are that deep among it and have been passed from pillar to post that they can't see a way out."

Tracey, a foster care worker for Rutland County Council, added: "It sounds scary and 'Thank You' to the police who seemed to do a fantastic job aiding this troubled soul."

Coun Ian Razzell said: "If there are veterans out there who are struggling to get the help they need for mental health illness please get in touch with me. Between my health contacts and the support available through the Rutland County Council Armed Forces Officer, we can and will help.

Coun Razzell added: "The help is there but having worn the boots, it's not always as straightforward as it seems.

"Veterans are usually proud individuals who struggle to ask for help but if they live locally and they need help, there is plenty of support available."

Help for veterans needing support can also be found at https://www.veteransgateway.org.uk/