Sixty homes have been evacuated in Stanley after the bomb squad was called to reports of a suspicious package. A large emergency services presence remains on the scene at Robert Terrace in Shield Row, with a 100-metre cordon in place that also includes Newburn Road and Ryton Crescent.
Emergency services at the scene
Since 1pm today, Durham Constabulary, County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, North East Ambulance Service, and a bomb disposal unit have gathered in the area. Residents have been directed to the Louisa Centre on Front Street for assistance.
The Ministry of Defence's bomb disposal team is working "as quickly as possible" to deal with the incident safely and securely. A Durham Constabulary spokesperson said: "We currently have a cordon in place around Robert Terrace in Shield Row, Stanley, while we investigate a suspicious item. Around 60 homes have been evacuated, with residents being directed to The Louisa Centre, in Front Street, for assistance."
Official statements
The spokesperson added: "Emergency services, including the Bomb Squad, are currently on scene and working as quickly as they can to assess the item. We are asking people to stay away from the area at this time. Updates will be provided as soon as possible."
A spokesperson for County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service said: "We were called at 1.02pm today (August 11) to a police incident on Robert Terrace, Shield Row, Stanley. A 100 metre cordon is in place and arrangements have been made to evacuate residents. One fire engine from High Handenhold is at the scene and the crew is expected to be there for some time."
Photographs from the scene
Dramatic photographs from the scene show the MoD bomb robot in Stanley, police cordons on Newburn Road, and emergency services responding. A police dogs unit has also arrived at the scene, and the North East Ambulance Service remains on site. A bomb disposal officer is seen following the route the robot took earlier. The road remains closed while the incident is ongoing.
