Knutsford raid: Man faces acid possession charges after raid

Residents in the Longridge area of Knutsford had been evacuated while experts investigated the scene

A man has appeared in court over the possession of acids which caused the evacuation of a number of homes during a police raid.

Army explosive disposal experts were called in after "unknown substances" were found at a house in Knutsford on Monday, Cheshire Police said.

A 29-year-old Knutsford man was later charged with illegally possessing hydrochloric and sulphuric acids.

At Chester Magistrates' Court, he was bailed to appear again on 9 January.

Evacuated residents spent about 10 hours out of their homes after being told to leave following the raid at about 07:00 GMT on Monday.

A 330ft (100m) cordon was put in place while experts investigated the scene.

A force representative said four other men and a woman who were also arrested have been bailed pending further inquiries.