Police update after homes evacuated in Guide Post after ‘suspicious items’ concerns

Police have since confirmed that the “suspicious items” that triggered a number of properties to be evacuated are not dangerous, and that there is no wider risk to the public

Residents have been able to return to their homes in Guide Post after being evacuated in the early hours of this morning. A number of properties on Welbeck Road were evacuated after “suspicious items” were found during a routine arrest.

Police found the items after making an arrest and, which was on suspicion of an unrelated offence, and called for assistance from Northumberland Fire and Rescue. The fire service sent three crews to the street near the River Wansbeck.

It has not been confirmed what the “suspected substances” are, but officers have since confirmed that those found at the property are not dangerous, and that there is no risk to the wider public. It is being treated as an isolated incident.

Earlier, a Northumbria Police spokesperson said: “Just before 4.30am this morning (Wednesday), police attended an address on Welbeck Road in Guide Post in order to conduct standard arrest enquires. Once inside the property, a quantity of suspicious items have been located.

“To ensure the safety of the public, a number of addresses have been evacuated as a precaution. A cordon has been put in place, and specialist teams are due to attend the scene.“