Man, 33, arrested by terror police on suspicion of possessing a bomb

The man, from North East Somerset, was first arrested on Thursday under the Explosive Substances Act 1883 (Pictures: PA)

A 33-year-old man has been arrested in a quiet village on suspicion of possessing a bomb.

Counter-terror officers swooped on Paulton, near Bath, on Friday afternoon.

Local residents described their shock at seeing several police vans along with a bomb disposal truck rolling through the High Street.

The man, from North East Somerset, was first arrested on Thursday under the Explosive Substances Act 1883, on suspicion of making or possessing an explosive substance in suspicious circumstances. He was later re-arrested on Friday under section 41 of the Terrorism Act 2000.

Police at a property in Paulton, near Bath (Picture: PA)

Avon and Somerset Police said the suspect remains in custody and, as part of the investigation, searches are being carried out at a property in Paulton.

The force said: ‘Officers carrying out this search are wearing protective suits due to the nature of this investigation and the explosive ordnance disposal team have also been called to the property as a precaution.’

Chief Inspector Steve Kendall, the local area commander, added: ‘I would like to reassure the local community that the arrest was carried out by specialist officers from the counter terrorism policing network.

‘A 33-year-old man arrested remains in police custody and there is no wider threat to the public.

‘I would like to thank the local community for their patience while officers carry out a search of the property and continue their investigation.

‘We will have an increased policing presence in the local area and should anyone have any questions or concerns about this activity, I encourage them to speak to one of my officers or call 101 and ask to speak to the local neighbourhood team.’

A bomb disposal truck was also seen in attendance (Picture: PA)

Jake Eastman, 29, lives 200 yards from the property in Paulton being searched by police and saw the bomb disposal team arrive.

He said: ‘I witnessed the bomb disposal team turn up today and enter the property.’

Passing the scene at 7.30pm on Friday, Mr Eastman said there was ‘a large presence’ of forensic officers entering the property, basing their operations from a large tent and van outside.

He added: ‘It’s a little scary, however the large presence of the police is reassuring and I think our appreciation always lies with them as they are making our neighbourhood feel safe.

‘The police have confirmed there’s no wider threat.’

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