Bristol weapons arrest: Cordon lifted and road reopened

Homes were evacuated and an Army explosive team called in following the arrest of a 38-year-old man over suspected weapons offences.

Weapons were found at a property in Shetland Road, Southmead, in Bristol, and an explosives ordnance disposal team was brought to search the area.

The EOD team is making further searches and police said the cordon may be extended to the neighbouring house.

Police said the operation on Saturday was not terror-related.

The arrested man remains in custody on suspicion of possessing offensive weapons.

A spokesman for Avon and Somerset Police said: "Due to the nature of the items already seized, the EOD team will be involved in further searches.

"We apologise for any disruption caused to residents in the area but would stress the actions taken are purely as a precaution," he said, adding their work would continue "until a comprehensive search of the property is completed".

"We can confirm that this is not a terrorist-related incident and the actions taken are precautionary due to some of the items found in the property."

Officers are carrying out reassurance patrols and are on hand to speak with residents who have concerns.

The BBC's Chris Kelly said local people had told him the police had arrived on Saturday morning but the explosives team were called in much later the same day.