Schoolboy, 16, arrested after probably explosive materials is discovered at a home, sparking evacuation

A 16-year-old schoolboy has been arrested after potentially explosive material was found at a house, sparking the evacuation of several properties.  

Officers discovered a ‘quantity of items of concerns’, including potentially explosive material at an address on Gloucester Avenue, in Blackpool, at around 11.30am today.

A number of properties were evacuated ‘as precaution’, Lancashire Constabulary confirmed. 

A teenager has since been arrested on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act, the force said.

Bomb disposal specialists were called to the address and assessed the items as well as making them safe if necessary.

Local police officers were also present, supported by members of Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service as well as the North West Ambulance Service.

A 16-year-old schoolboy has been arrested after potentially explosive material was found at a house on Gloucester Avenue (pictured) in Blackpool, sparking the evacuation of several properties

Chief Inspector Martin Wyatt said: ‘We have a significant policing and emergency services presence in the area, and we are asking people to avoid the area where they can.

‘It is expected the response may last into this evening and I want to thank residents who have been affected for their support and co-operation while we go about our work.

‘We appreciate that this will be disruptive and concerning for the local community, but we want to reassure all residents we are working extremely hard with all our partners to make the address safe and bring this matter to as swift a conclusion as we can.’