A multi-agency operation has safely concluded in Ulverston.

A major incident was declared last night (6 December) as agencies supported those evacuated from their homes.

The evacuation was conducted as a necessary precaution after police officers discovered a suspicious item at a house on Steel Street.

The discovery led to 53 homes being evacuated whilst an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team carried out a careful assessment on the item found.

Assessments have declared there is no threat from the item.

As a result the outer cordon put in place as a precaution is now being lifted.

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

Those people in the reception centre and at a further site where people were given accommodation are being informed they can return home.

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

Enquiries are ongoing and a police presence will remain in place at the house in question on Steel Street.

North Lonsdale Road has reopened.

Superintendent Matt Pearman, Cumbria Constabulary, said:

“I am pleased to declare that the major incident has concluded and residents from the Steel Street area can now return to their homes.

“A major incident was declared to assist the coordination of multiple agencies in supporting those who had to leave their homes on Wednesday evening.

“This enabled agencies to quickly share information and work together effectively to provide the appropriate support for those evacuated.

“I would like to thank all of those who had to leave their homes for the patience they have shown throughout.

“We acknowledge the inconvenience it causes when you cannot stay in your own home, however our priority was and always will be the safety of all residents.

“I would like to thank the EOD for their thorough assessment and all the agencies involved in this response for the work they have done to support those affected.”