HAMPSHIRE police has responded to a claim a man was sexually assaulted by officers during an arrest in Bishopstoke.

The 51-year-old was detained over an incident involving a knife at a playpark.

During the arrest on Sunday evening, the man accused police officers of touching him inappropriately - an allegation which the force denies.

A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said: “We were called at 6.30pm on Sunday, August 13, to a report that a man approached a group of young people at the playground in Blackberry Drive and made threats to harm them while brandishing a knife.

“The following day a 51-year-old man from Bishopstoke was arrested on suspicion of possessing a knife, affray and common assault.

“His person and address were searched, and a Stanley knife was recovered. He has been released on police bail until 14 November.

“Following an allegation that the man was sexually assaulted by officers, it has been deemed that proportionate action was taken while carrying out the search in line with our policies and procedures.

“It has been confirmed that the alleged action by the officer conducting the search would not constitute a sexual assault.”