WILTSHIRE Police last night arrested a man on suspicion of possessing an explosive substance after a bomb alert in Devizes.

Officers were called to an address in Anzio Road at 12.30pm yesterday (Wednesday) after the discovery of a suspicious item at a private address.

Homes were evacuated and a precautionary cordon put in place as the Explosive Ordnance Disposal United attended the scene.

And at approximately 10.40pm last night, officers arrested a local man in his 20s on suspicion of possessing/controlling an explosive substance under Section 4 of the Explosives Act.

He was taken to Melksham custody for further questioning.

Duty Superintendent Chris Chammings said: "This incident has understandably had a large impact on the local community, specifically those residents who have been evacuated from their homes for a lengthy period of time.

"I am extremely grateful to them for their ongoing patience.

"Our priority during this incident has been to ensure the safety of the public.

"Following a number of extensive enquiries, we have arrested a man in connection with the incident and we are satisfied that the scene is safe and there is no risk to the wider public.

"Our enquiries in relation to this incident will continue and it would therefore be inappropriate to comment further at this time."

Residents inside the cordon who were evacuated have since been allowed to return to their homes.

A small cordon remains in place at the event while officers continue with their enquiries.