Police have moved to dispel rumours circulating on social media which suggested an officer carrying out door-to-door enquiries was not a real officer.

On Wednesday evening while police were attending to a serious incident in Blackpool, someone took a photo of one of the officers, and then posted it on social media.

The image garnered several comments, many of which suggested the officer was not a genuine serving member of the police.

Since then, police have confirmed the officer to be part of their force.

A spokesperson for the police said on Thursday: "We are aware that an image of one of our officers attending a serious incident in Blackpool last night is being widely shared on social media and we just wanted to let you know what our team were responding to.

"At 7.25pm on Wednesday police were called to Marton Drive in Blackpool following reports a man was waving a knife at members of the public inside a house.

"While some of the immediate response officers were taking statements inside the property, another officer was conducting house to house enquiries and giving safety advice to local residents.

"During this time one of the residents has taken a picture of the officer - which she was perfectly entitled to do.

"The image has since been posted on social media with some people speculating whether he is in fact a real officer.

"We can confirm that he is a serving police officer, who was carrying out his duties and helping to keep the people of Blackpool safe.

"If you are ever unsure, please be aware that police officers always carry identification and can always be asked for verification.

"They are used to providing that reassurance."