53 homes evacuated after suspicious item found in Ulverston house

A major incident has been declared and 53 homes evacuated after a suspicious item was found in a house in Ulverston.

Police said a multi-agency operation "remains ongoing" in the town on Thursday after the discovery on Steel Street on Wednesday afternoon.

They said an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team were "continuing their assessment to safely resolve this incident".

“I fully appreciate that this been a long night for those who have been evacuated from their homes as a necessary safety precaution," said Chief Superintendent Mick Bird of Cumbria Constabulary.

“As a multi-agency, we are doing all we can to support them. I hope that we can allow them to safely return to their homes as soon as possible.

“The EOD are working to ensure the safety of all residents as they continue their assessment.

“Once again, I would like to thank the residents for their ongoing patience.

“I would like to reassure the public that at this time there is no known threat to any person.

“The action to evacuate residents from neighbouring properties is a precautionary one, whilst we await an assessment by an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team."

North Lonsdale Road remained closed between Sir John Barrow Way and Steel Street on Thursday morning, and motorists were asked to avoid the area.

A 100m cordon was put in place around Steel Steet whilst an investigation took place.

Westmorland & Furness Council opened a reception centre at Ulverston Leisure Centre for those who were evacuated and required accommodation.

Police were called at 1:30pm on Wednesday following a report of concern for the welfare of an individual. Officers attended the scene and identified a suspicious item within the house.

A 46-year-old man was in police custody after he was arrested in connection with this incident.