More than 150 homes were evacuated in Somerset after suspicious substances and items were discovered at a property. The find was made at a house on Becket Road in Worle, near Weston-super-Mare, on Wednesday, according to Avon and Somerset Police.
Arrest and disposal of items
A 70-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of fraud by false representation following the discovery. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit attended the property, where items were tested and destroyed.
A total of 153 properties in the area were evacuated, and a 100-metre cordon was put in place overnight while an in-depth search continues at the home.
Police statement and public safety
The force said: “Officers have identified some suspicious items which have been tested and destroyed by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit.
“We understand there are several residents with concerns for their pets left at home within the cordon. We appreciate the importance of this but our primary focus is public safety.
“We do believe this to be an isolated incident and searches are continuing.
“A 70-year-old man remains in police custody.”
Rest centre set up
North Somerset Council said it had set up a rest centre at The Campus in Weston. The council said: “Anyone who can’t return to their home within the cordoned area, and doesn’t have other accommodation available tonight, should go to The Campus.”
