A MAN has been charged after ‘potentially suspicious items’ were found when emergency services responded to a house fire in Timsbury.

The incident resulted in a huge police presence and the response of bomb disposal experts during a day of drama (Tuesday, July 16).

Residents were evacuated to Congrye Hall after a 100m cordon was set up in the village, which was eventually lifted at about 4.30pm.

Avon and Somerset Police released a statement on the incident in High Street, which Avon Fire and Rescue Service were called to at 4.44am. Police were alerted at 5.15am.

Firefighters were able to extinguish the fire but made officers aware they found a number of potentially suspicious items.

Public safety “is always our paramount concern” and therefore alerted explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) teams who ensured the items were made safe.

Following further checks of the property, police were able to scale down the cordon in the afternoon before it was eventually lifted.

Residents living within the cordon were asked to evacuate and police worked with Bath and North East Somerset Council to ensure they were able to access Conygre Hall. Those residents are returning home. Acting Chief Inspector Jon Nash said: “Public safety is always our priority, and we are grateful for the patience and understanding of the people of Timsbury. “Meticulous searches have been carried out and we are satisfied there is no ongoing risk to the public. "Officers remain at the property carrying out investigative inquiries because a man has been arrested on suspicion of arson. He has required some medical attention, but we’re pleased to say nobody else has. “Emergency services and the council have well-rehearsed plans for such incidents to help keep the public safe. We recognise such incidents have a huge impact on the public, particularly in a small community.

“We will carry out high-visibility reassurance patrols in the coming days so residents can come and talk to us and share any wider concerns.”

Timothy Hurdle, of High Street, Timsbury, has been charged with arson with intent to endanger life and appeared at Bristol Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, July 18.

He will next appear at Bristol Crown Court on August 14.

Emergency services were at the scene of this incident throughout Tuesday 16 July with the cordon being lifted at around 4.30pm, following which residents were allowed home.