A MAN has been arrested after a hoax call saw emergency services rush to reports of a man drowning in the Manchester Ship Canal.

Several police cars, ambulances and a police helicopter were launched to deal with the ‘incident’ at 11.50pm on Wednesday.

It was reported at Stockton Heath swing bridge.

Crews searched the area but did not find anyone, police say.

A spokesman for Cheshire Police said: “Emergency services attended the swing bridge following reports that a person was potentially drowning in the canal.

“A thorough search of the area proved negative.

“A 44-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of wasting police time."