'Major incident' declared as bomb squad called in to investigate 'suspicious item' found in house
A 'major incident' was declared on Wednesday afternoon after police were called to Steel Street, Ulverston.
Thursday 7 December 2023 13:44, UK
A "major incident" was declared and homes were evacuated as a bomb disposal squad investigated a "suspicious item" found in a house in northwest England.
Cumbria Police discovered the item on Wednesday afternoon following concerns for the welfare of an individual in Steel Street, Ulverston.
A total of 53 homes were evacuated - and on Thursday the force said the item posed "no threat" and a police cordon which had been put in place as a precaution had been lifted.
"An Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team carried out a careful assessment on the item found. Assessments have declared there is no threat from the item," it said.
"A 46-year-old man remains in police custody after he was arrested in connection with this incident.
"Enquiries are ongoing and a police presence will remain in place at the house in question on Steel Street."
Westmorland & Furness Council opened a reception centre at Ulverston Leisure Centre for those who had been evacuated and required accommodation.
North Lonsdale Road - between Sir John Barrow Way and Steel Street - has reopened.
Superintendent Matt Pearman said: "I am pleased to declare that the major incident has concluded and residents from the Steel Street area can now return to their homes.
"I would like to thank all of those who had to leave their homes for the patience they have shown throughout.
"We acknowledge the inconvenience it causes when you cannot stay in your own home, however our priority was and always will be the safety of all residents.
"I would like to thank the EOD for their thorough assessment and all the agencies involved in this response for the work they have done to support those affected."