A MAN wielding an axe has threatened council staff before going on the rampage and smashing up their office.

Officials and customers at the Property Shop in City Hall could only look on in horror as the man used his weapon to wreck kiosks and break several large panes of glass.

After the attacker left, the shop was closed and staff were faced with the task of clearing up the debris.

City of Lincoln Council director of housing and community services John Bibby said: "There was an incident in the Property Shop area of City Hall, where staff were threatened and significant damage was caused.

"No-one was hurt in the incident but we are now operating limited benefits and housing services.

"We will return these services as soon as possible but there may be a scaled down service at the beginning of next week due to the extent of the damage.

"The council takes all possible steps to ensure the safety of its staff and members of the public using our buildings is maintained.

"It is difficult to prepare for something like this, but we will be looking at the situation and what lessons can be learnt from this incident."

Victim Support counsellors are to visit City Hall next week to offer assistance to anyone who needs it.

Andrew Hughes, 55, of Friars Mews, Lincoln, said he was shocked at the extent of the damage which was clearly visible from outside the building's Orchard Street entrance.

"It's devastating destruction and it must have been terrifying for anyone who was in there – maybe mothers with kids – when it kicked off," said Mr Hughes, who works in Morrisons.

Lincolnshire Police spokesman Jemma Peacock said officers were called to City Hall just after 2pm yesterday.

"Police arrested a 28-year-old man on suspicion of criminal damage," she said.

"An axe was recovered at the scene. No members of the public or staff were hurt."

Any witnesses who have not yet spoken to police are asked to call 0300 111 0300.