Villagers evacuated near RAF Fairford after explosives arrests

Villagers have been evacuated from their homes near RAF Fairford after the arrest of several men on suspicion of explosives offences, police have said.

A major incident was declared, with armed police manning a cordon near the village of Whelford in Gloucestershire, near the site of the airbase which is used by the US air force (USAF).

A large emergency services presence was seen in the area, including a Hazardous Area Response Team.

Gloucestershire police said: “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.”