One of the devices that triggered a number of homes to be evacuated and a cordon established yesterday was a ‘viable explosive device’, police have now confirmed.

Around 69 homes were evacuated and a cordon put in place around Watling Street Road in Fulwood after police received a call at around 12.25pm yesterday (18 June).

As reported yesterday, one controlled explosion was carried out by bomb disposal teams at the scene with another device being taken to another location for a controlled explosion.

Read more: Retail pod to be set up in car park of Deepdale Sainsbury’s

The cordon was then lifted and people were allowed to return to their homes.

Today (20 June), police continue their investigation and continue to appeal to the public for information. There is an increased police presence in the area.

A spokesperson for police said: “One of the items was found to be a viable explosive device, the other was not a viable explosive device.

“You will notice an increased police presence in the area. We have a dedicated investigation team making enquiries, and reassurance patrols will continue. This is being treated as an isolated incident and we do not believe it is linked to any other investigations.”

If you saw anything unusual in the area yesterday, or have information which could assist police with their investigation, you can call 101 – quoting log 0556 of 18^th June 2024.

Subscribe: Keep in touch directly with the latest headlines from Blog Preston, join our WhatsApp channel and subscribe for our twice-a-week email newsletter. Both free and direct to your phone and inbox.

Read more: See the latest Preston news and headlines