Two blasts heard after bomb squad called to a suspicious packages

A controlled explosion has been carried out by bomb disposal experts after two suspicious packages were found in an area of Nottingham.

Emergency services attended Allington Avenue, in the Lenton area of the city, at about 14:00 BST on Friday, and a large cordon was set up.

Nottinghamshire Police said one of the packages, found in Maxwell Court, had now been made safe, however a second, in Allington Avenue, was yet to be dealt with.

People have been advised to stay away from the area, while residents from Allington Avenue and the surrounding streets have been evacuated “as a precaution”.

Road closures along Derby Road, between the junctions of Welby Avenue and Harrington Drive, will remain in place for “some time”, Nottinghamshire Police said.

The force confirmed a second controlled explosion is planned with cordons remaining in place until the second package can be made safe.

Jean Jeffery, 78, lives with her husband, Tim Jeffery, 65, and daughter Brianna, 20, in nearby Park Road.

Mr and Mrs Jeffery were among those evacuated – and are waiting for more information from emergency services.

She said: “I think it is just the not knowing what is happening which makes me feel a bit uneasy.

“We have asked if we need to find a place to stay, and they told us to just wait at the bottom of the road.

“Neighbours over the road have been told to find a hotel. It is very confusing.”

Brianna added: “Mum rang me, so I went straight on to Facebook and read it was all live breaking news.

“Me and my friend were in shock and literally came dashing back to make sure everyone was OK.”

Nottinghamshire Police said The Walton Hotel, in North Road, had opened its doors for people to stay, in the short-term, while work continued at the scene.

Details of emergency numbers for students to contact have also been provided.

Finn O’Mahony, who lives on Welby Avenue, said police had asked him to leave his house at 15:30. 

The student said he had “no idea” when he might be able to return home.

“I’m staying at friends at the moment,” he said.

“The weather’s nice, so we’re having a few drinks in the garden.”

A police spokesperson said: “This is an ongoing incident and we’re dealing with it as a major incident, alongside other emergency services, and will be providing further regular updates on our website and social media.”

By Rob Sissons, BBC East Midlands Today

I’ve been chatting to residents who seem baffled about what’s going on.

Some have turned up at the cordon to find they’re not being allowed in at the moment.

People don’t seem to know what’s happening, although a lot of people in this area are students and can find other places to go.

There are police officers posted on at least four side streets off Derby Road, where cordons have been set up.