Police used a taser gun to subdue a man who was threatening his family in Whitehill Close, Ramsbury, on Tuesday afternoon.

Police were told that a 31-year-old man, reported to be intoxicated and carrying a knife, was being aggressive towards his grandfather and other members of his family.

When officers arrived at the house, the man locked himself in the bathroom then went into a bedroom where he shouted abuse at them and threatened to throw himself out of the window.

Officers were asked into the house by the family and confronted the man as he came down stairs. He was warned he would be tasered if he did not give himself up. He continued to approach officers and the taser gun was fired.

The weapon fired a dart that delivered a strong electric shock, subduing the man, who was arrested. He was found to have a knife on him.

Acting inspector Andy Peach said: “It was a very unpleasant incident for all concerned. Apparently the man has had problems with drink and drugs and the family members were trying to get him out of the house.”

The man, who has not been named, was arrested and taken to Swindon custody unit, where he was being interviewed yesterday.

None of his family wanted to comment on the incident.