Homes evacuated in Chester-le-Street area (From The Northern Echo)

Bomb squad on way to Bournmoor after discovery of "suspicious items"

8:18pm Friday 30th July 2010 in News By Andrew Douglas, Deputy News Editor

HOMES in the village of Bournmoor, near Chester-le-Street, have been evacuated this evening following the discovery of "suspicious items".

Police said the find was made at a housing association property in Moor Court. The tenant was not at home at the time.

The immediate area has been sealed off pending the arrival of the bomb disposal squad.

A spokeswoman for Durham Police said: "Police are investigating the discovery of suspicious items at a property in Bournmoor."

She added that an initial assessment by officers at the scene led to a small number of residents in the area being evacuated to a nearby village hall.

Residents outside the immediate area were being advised to stay indoors until initial inquiries are completed.

"These items have given cause for concern but we don't know their precise nature at this stage."

Durham Assistant Chief Constable, Michael Banks

One resident living nearby told The Northern Echo that he had been told by police that if he left his home he may not be allowed to return.

Assistant Chief Constable Michael Banks said this evening: "We are carrying out a full assessment of the situation.

"These items have given cause for concern but we don't know their precise nature at this stage.

"Our aim is to keep disruption to a minimum but we need to keep the area clear. We are doing everything possible to contain the situation and protect public safety.

"We will try to get a return to normality at the earliest opportunity."