MERSEYSIDE Police have issued a warning about the dangers of carrying weapons after a two-year-old girl was struck by an arrow from a crossbow in Liverpool.

The toddler suffered a head injury after the incident, which happened just after 2pm inside a property on Oakhouse Park in Walton yesterday, Tuesday.

The child was taken to hospital where her condition is described as serious.

Officers seized the crossbow and it is being forensically examined.

Detective Inspector Sabi Kaur said: "This incident shows the obvious dangers posed by firearms stored in Merseyside.

“We will continue to listen to all of the information we receive to help us identify and remove these weapons from the streets."

DI Kaur added: "I am sure the community in Walton will share our shock and distress at the fact a child could have been hurt in this way.

"Our enquiries into this incident are at a very early stage, and we are still trying to establish the full facts but we know it was an isolated incident."

DI Kaur added: "This incident shows the obvious dangers posed by firearms stored in Merseyside.

“We will continue to listen to all of the information we receive to help us identify and remove these weapons from the streets."

If you have any information about firearms contact Merseyside Police's social media desk via Twitter @MerPolCC or Facebook Merseyside Police CC.

People can also call 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Alternatively click here to fill in Crimestopper's online form.