Homes emptied over unexploded devices fear

A bomb disposal team has been called to Olivers Mill in Morpeth

Suspected unexploded devices have been found during a search of a property, leading to nearby residents being evacuated from their homes.

The North East Regional Organised Crime Unit said the discovery was made in a property on Olivers Mill in Morpeth, Northumberland early this morning during "an ongoing investigation".

A cordon was put in place and an explosive ordinance disposal team was called out to the building which is a former flour mill converted into apartments.

A spokesperson for the crime unit said: "A small number of properties in the area have been evacuated as a precaution."

Deputy leader of Northumberland County Council Richard Wearmouth said many people in the town had been concerned about the "very prominent, very noticeable" police presence.

"We've had a lot of people ask us what's going on," he said, adding he believed all the residents of Olivers Mill were told to leave their flats.

"We offered Morpeth Sports and Leisure Centre as a place for them to decamp to, although I understand the cordon has now been lifted.

"But we look forward to the police being a little more clear about what's gone on."