A man has been charged following an incident allegedly involving an axe in an Asda in Glenrothes.

The Fife store was closed after police raced to the scene at around 8.15am on Wednesday.

Eyewitnesses say a man 'turned up with an axe' after being asked to leave by staff earlier this morning.

Police say officers sustained minor injuries and a cop vehicle was damaged while apprehending the 40-year-old, who has since been arrested and charged.

Inspector Kirk Donnelly, Glenrothes Community Policing, said: “We can confirm a 40-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with a disturbance at an ASDA Supermarket in Queensgate Industrial Estate, Glenrothes, around 8.15am on Wednesday, 1 July, 2020. 

READ MORE: Nine people charged following 'party mess' left behind at mass gathering in Scots woods

"The man was found to be in possession of an offensive weapon, but I would like reassure the public that there is no threat to the wider community. 

"A police car was damaged while the suspect was apprehended and officers received minor injuries. 

"No members of the public were injured and I would like to thank them for their assistance with this incident."

Asda staff have been praised for their handling of the situation.

One Twitter user said: “Amazing reactions by staff at Asda Glenrothes this morning. Put themselves at risk to prevent a situation that could have been much, much worse than a few displays damaged. Hope they’re rewarded accordingly by the company."

The Fife superstore then shut its doors after the incident but is now back open.

READ MORE: Murder inquiry after death of Ryan Low in Paisley

A spokesperson for Asda said: ‘’We have been made aware of an incident that took place at the Glenrothes store earlier today and would like to praise all of our colleagues at the store who acted quickly and effectively until authorities arrived.

"The store is now reopen and we are helping the police with their inquiries.”

The 40-year-old man is due to appear at Falkirk Sheriff Court on Thursday.