POLICE negotiators have successfully talked a man down from a York rooftop after a six and a half hour stand off. 

North Yorkshire Police said it was called to the incident in The Werkdyke, off Aldwark, just before 8am today, but have now taken the man into custody.

A cordon was set up the street, near The Stonebow, and multiple fire and ambulance crews parked next to the scene.

Sgt Knight, from North Yorkshire Police, spoke to The Press at the scene and said the man was in his 30s and is not originally from York but has connections to the area.

He also said that the man climbed onto the roof via one of the properties in Aldwark.

He explained: "We've got a male on the roof of a premises on Aldwark. He appears to be having a mental health breakdown and we are negotiating with him to try and get him come down safely.

"Our role is to secure to area and make sure nobody walks past so if a tile slips off or heaven forbid he falls then nobody is there to get injured."

A spokesman for North Yorkshire Police added: "Officers are currently at the scene of the incident along with North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service as they work to bring the incident to a safe conclusion.

"At this time, we ask members of the public to stay away from the scene and allow the emergency services to focus on the man’s safety."

Anyone with concerns about suicide, or who needs support can contact The Samaritans on 01904 655888