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‘Unstable’ chemicals in jar blown up in controlled explosion at Bolton home – police dismiss terrorism fears

By Ben Butler

A jar containing ‘unstable’ chemicals was blown up at a Bolton home in a controlled explosion by police – who have dismissed any fears of a terrorist threat.

At about 11am, police and fire officers were called to the property on Royston Avenue, Tonge Moor, to cordon the house off and examine the jar.

A controlled explosion of the jar was carried out this afternoon by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team.

Superintendent Mark Bell, based at Bolton, said: “I want to reassure the public that this incident is in no way linked to any terrorist activity.

“We are working hard to resolve this incident as quickly as possible, with a minimum of disruption to the local community and the safety of the public is our utmost priority.

“We will update residents as soon as we have brought this incident to its conclusion.”

A school nearby will remain open until its usual closing time of 3.30pm, but the after school club for children will not be running.

Chief Executive of Bolton Council Sean Harris said: “The council are supporting and assisting police and other emergency services to handle the incident.”

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