Man charged after chemicals seized in Ashington

This is an update in connection with an incident where chemicals were recovered from a property in Ashington.

On Wednesday, May 31, police received a report of a male with a suspected firearm at an address in Chestnut Street, Ashington.

Officers attended the address and following a search of the premises a quantity of chemicals, paraffin and paraphernalia were recovered. No firearm was found at the address.

A 43-year-old man was arrested and tests are ongoing in relation to the chemicals recovered.

Today Police have charged William John Rae, 43, of Chestnut Street, Ashington with offences relating to explosive substances.

He has been remanded in custody and will appear at South East Magistrates' Court in Bedlington on Monday, June 5.

Chief Superintendent Sharon Scott, of Northumbria Police, said "Extra officers have been in the area to carry out a number of inquiries and residents are thanked for their patience.

"A number of materials were found at the address but we want to reassure the public that this is very much an isolated incident.

"We understand that an arrest of this nature may cause people some concern but we do not believe that there is any risk to the public.

"We always encourage people to report suspicious behaviour and anyone who has any concerns can call police on 101."