Boy and man bailed over weapon and explosives probe

Suspicious items were found during a search an address on Cockleton Lane, Gurnard, and nearby homes were evacuated

A teenage boy and a man have been bailed after police found suspicious items during a search that led to nearby homes being evacuated.

Police were called to a report of malicious communications of a sexual nature at an address on Cockleton Lane in Gurnard, Isle of Wight, shortly before 19:45 GMT on Monday.

The force said after a number of suspicious objects found were examined by specialist officers, residents within 100m (328ft) had to leave for four hours.

A boy, 14, from Cowes and a man, 58, were arrested on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon and an explosive substance for an unlawful purpose. The boy was also arrested on suspicion of sending indecent or offensive communications.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary said both have been released on bail with conditions until 3 February while inquiries continue.

Police confirmed no explosive materials were found in the objects examined.