Bomb squad destroy explosive device in Cheshire garden

Bomb squad officers were called after an explosive device was found in the front garden of a house in Cheshire.

Birtles Road in Warrington was cordoned off and nearby homes evacuated following the discovery at 14:15 BST on Wednesday.

A controlled explosion was carried out after the improvised device was assessed by a specialist team.

Residents were able to return to their homes at 21:00 but a cordon remains in place, Cheshire Police said.

An investigation is continuing, the force added.

Rob Youd, 45, said he was was visiting family when a police van parked up on the street followed by about seven police cars, which formed a road block.

His family were evacuated shortly after officers arrived.

"We have three boys, aged 15, 12 and 10, who all found it quite an adventure but also quite frightening at times," he said.