Armed police launched a major manhunt through Flaunden yesterday afternoon, after a man in his 30s threatened to commit suicide.

At about 2.06pm, officers as well as a police helicopter were seen by villagers desperately searching for a resident who had threatened to end his life.

Sarah Spence, spokeswoman for Hertfordshire Constabulary, said: “Police were called to Flaunden following reports that a man was threatening to cause himself serious harm.

“He was found in a field.”

Ambulances from Hemel Hempstead were called to the scene at about 2.24pm, but were not needed.

Gary Sanderson, spokesman for the East of England Ambulance Service, said: “We were called to attend a man with psychiatric issues, but were later told that police were dealing with the situation.”

Police would not confirm if the man was found armed with a gun.