Bomb squad continue search as cordon lifted

The area was cordoned off and people were evacuated after police found a "number of suspicious items"

Officers will continue to search a house after a "number of suspicious items" were discovered, leading to the evacuation of about 20 homes.

A 100m (328ft) cordon was put in place around the property on Saturday evening, after police were called to Stourport Road in Kidderminster, Worcestershire.

The cordon has been lifted and roads were reopened after explosives experts made the area safe, police said.

Among those told to leave their homes was Debbie Watkins, who said: "It’s been a horrible weekend, very unsettling for us all.

"With a 10-year-old and dog it was quite a difficult situation," she said, adding: "It was quite chaotic, I don't think anybody knew what was happening, it was a lot of upheaval."

Ms Watkins said although the police reassured residents the ordeal came as a surprise.

Carol Worthington said she "couldn't quite believe it" when police knocked on her door and told her to evacuate.

"We saw a dog in a loop, a couple of riot shields and we heard some loud speakers, there was a lot of shouting," Ms Worthington added.

It is unclear what was found, although West Mercia Police said an explosive ordnance disposal team was called in.

It said officers would remain "as we ensure the area remains safe and continue with our searches".

A 51-year-old man was arrested and no-one else was wanted in connection with the incident, police said.

He remained in custody on Monday.