Major incident declared and a number of properties evacuated as army called in following arrest of several men on suspicion of offences under the explosives act.

From Gloucestershire Constabulary:

A number of properties are currently being evacuated in the Whelford area following the declaration of a major incident.

It follows the arrest of several men on suspicion of offences under the explosives act.

The Army’s specialist explosive ordnance disposal team are currently examining a number of vehicles.

The local residents are being evacuated to a nearby leisure centre.

A cordon is currently in place but we’d like to reassure people that we believe this incident is contained.

We are working closely with our partners and are enacting the well-rehearsed plans we have in place.