Homes evacuated after 'hazardous substances' found

A cordon has been set up and homes evacuated after potentially hazardous substances were found in Glanton.
An area of Glanton is sealed off by police. Picture by Steve MillerAn area of Glanton is sealed off by police. Picture by Steve Miller
An area of Glanton is sealed off by police. Picture by Steve Miller

Police were called to an address in South View at 8.58pm last night after being alerted to a fire by Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service.

A number of what police described as potentially hazardous substances were found inside the property and a 17-year-old male was arrested. He is currently in police custody.

Police in Glanton. Picture by Steve MillerPolice in Glanton. Picture by Steve Miller
Police in Glanton. Picture by Steve Miller
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A Royal Logistics Corps bomb disposal team was called. Police said there was no wider threat to the public.

Four homes were evacuated and a 100-metre cordon was initially set up, although this was later reduced to 50 metres.

A joint investigation with a number of key partners, including the local authority, is under way and inquiries to identify the substances are ongoing.

Detective Chief Inspector Jamie Pitt, from Northumbria Police, said: “To best protect the public, a 50metre cordon has been put in place and four homes have been evacuated as a result.

Emergency services in Glanton last night. Picture by Steve MillerEmergency services in Glanton last night. Picture by Steve Miller
Emergency services in Glanton last night. Picture by Steve Miller
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“There is no wider threat to the public, however, our officers remain in the area to carry out inquiries and offer reassurance to residents.

“A 17-year-old male has been arrested and remains in police custody at this time.

“I also want to take the time to thank the members of the public who have kindly offered up refreshments to our staff and officers, and those of our partners, who have worked tirelessly and professionally in order to ensure the safety of the public. It is incredibly kind and greatly appreciated.”

The British Red Cross had an emergency vehicle at the scene, with staff and volunteers providing support to residents.

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Sam Samwell, British Red Cross senior emergency response officer for the North East, said: “British Red Cross staff and volunteers are providing support to residents after the discovery of a number of potentially hazardous substances at a property in the Glanton area of Northumberland.

“We have an emergency vehicle at the scene, and are on hand to provide practical and emotional support at a rest centre if needed.

"The Red Cross responds to an emergency every four hours across the UK, working with partners to help people in crisis.”