A GANG forced their way into a block of flats before threatening residents with a knife.

Police were called to Alder Lane in Orford shortly before 7.30am on Saturday, January 25, after receiving reports of a group of people trying to force their way into a property.

It is alleged that an offender then made threats in the communal area of an apartments block while brandishing a blade.

A 37-year-old man was arrested by officers at the scene.

Robert Croughton, of Alder Lane, has since been charged with affray and causing damage.

He is now due to appear before Warrington Magistrates Court next month, and has been released on conditional bail until that date.