UPDATE: '˜Suspicious device' removed from village square
Officers were called just before 9am on Friday (February 16) to a flat in Fairbank Road where they found a device which they were concerned may be an explosive, police said.
An 100-metre safety cordon was created around the flat and nearby properties, including some shops, were evacuated.
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Hide AdAn employee at The Little Teahouse said they were told by police ‘to drop everything’ and leave the premises.
All the animals at a vets were also evacated from the building.
Police and experts from an explosive ordnance disposal team remained at the scene at 5pm and a rest centre was set up in a leisure centre for evacuated residents.
Police confirmed the device was removed early Friday evening for forensic examination and residents were allowed to return to their homes.
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Hide AdA spokesman said: “Thanks to people in Fairbank Road, Southwater, for patience when we had to set up a safety cordon round a flat after a device was found on Friday morning.
“It was removed early Friday evening for forensic examination.
“No local threat and no suggestion of any terrorism.”
Holly Verry tweeted: “Thanks to the police for being so polite, friendly and helpful this morning.
“Every time I’ve met the Horsham Police they have always behaved impeccably.”
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