Controlled explosion carried out in Reading after 'suspicious item' found

A controlled explosion has been carried out in Reading after a 'suspicious item' was found.

A cordon was set up after an object was found on Lulworth Road in Whitley, Thames Valley Police said.

A bomb disposal unit was called and people were made to leave their homes after an object was found on Tuesday afternoon (27 April).

Kirt Caeser was among the local residents moved to safety during the incident.

"[The police] said it was a square box, about 12 by 4 inches wrapped up in tape, with some wires hanging out of it," he said.

"They've taken it pretty seriously and they've done a good job to evacuate everybody."

Thames Valley Police said that "following an examination, the package was not believed to have been a threat to the wider public."

Superintendent Nick John, Commander for Reading, said “Incidents such as this are concerning for the local community and I would like to thank the public for their patience &and co-operation and to our partner agencies for their help in relocating residents whilst cordons were in place.

“With help from EOD we have been able to swiftly bring this incident to a conclusion and an investigation into the circumstances has now commenced."

The force is asking anyone with information to get in touch online or by calling 101 with reference 43210178205