Residents in Bristol have been evacuated from their homes following reports of a loud bang in the Frenchay area. Avon and Somerset Police have established a cordon on Sterncourt Road, and emergency services are currently at the scene. The incident, which occurred early this morning, prompted the deployment of a bomb squad, and affected residents have been relocated to a nearby Harvester pub.
Police Statement and Evacuation Details
Avon and Somerset Police released a statement on social media, advising the public to avoid the area. The statement read: 'A cordon is in place as emergency services respond to reports of an incident at a house near Frenchay. People from a number of properties in Sterncourt Road are being evacuated as a precaution. We'd ask people to avoid the area at this time. More details to follow.' In a subsequent update, the force confirmed that emergency services remain on site and are working together. Residents who have been evacuated have been taken to a temporary rest centre nearby. The cordon remains in place, and further updates are expected.
Eyewitness Accounts and Local Response
One evacuee reported hearing a loud bang at approximately 6:30 am. When he went to investigate, he was instructed by armed police to return inside his home. At the Snuff Mill Harvester pub, where residents have been taken, a staff member stated: 'There are quite a lot of residents that have been brought here. We are shut to the public but are opening at 11:30 am. It's a developing situation.' The police have urged everyone to stay away from the area while the investigation continues. This is a developing story, and more information will be provided as it becomes available.
