A major incident has been declared and homes have been evacuated in a village near an RAF base which hosts the United States Air Force.

Gloucestershire Police said residents in Whelford, near RAF Fairford, have been taken to a leisure centre while investigations continue.

Several men have been arrested on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act, police said.

The Army’s specialist explosive ordnance disposal team is currently examining a number of vehicles.

Police said a cordon is currently in place in the area and that officers believe the incident is contained.

A large emergency services presence was seen in the area, including a Hazardous Area Response Team.

Gloucestershire Police said: “A number of properties are currently being evacuated in the Whelford area following the declaration of a major incident.

“It follows the arrest of several men on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act.

“We are working closely with our partners and are enacting the well-rehearsed plans we have in place.”

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