Hundreds evacuated before 'explosions' heard in Midlands street

Hundreds of people were evacuated from the area surrounding a street in Nottinghamshire after a bomb squad was called in over suspicious packages. Locals in Lenton were yesterday blocked from entering their homes for several hours from 2pm.

'Explosions' were heard in the area as police carried out controlled detonations after finding two suspicious packages - one in Allington Avenue and the other in nearby Maxwell Court. A huge armed police presence was at the scene alongside fire and rescue officers who could also be seen accessing sewers.

Police have detained a man under the Mental Health Act. Superintendent Jon Foy, of Nottinghamshire Police, said last night: “We’d like to thank all those who took in friends and neighbours who were displaced.

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"We’d also like to thank residents for their patience and understanding during what has been a complex and challenging incident. Specialist search teams remain in the area as work continues to make the remaining package safe.”

Nottinghamshire Police said last night: "The site of this package has been established and Explosive Ordinance Disposal engineers are at the scene. People are advised to stay away from the area until further notice, while residents from Allington Avenue and the surrounding areas have been evacuated as a precaution.

"A cordon is in place and roads are closed in Lenton on Derby Road, between the junctions of Welby Avenue and Harrington Drive."

Lilian Greenwood, previously the Labour MP for Nottingham South, said: "This is shocking and very worrying. Hope everyone is safe."