Residents still out of homes after explosives found in St Helens house
d at a man's house following his death.
"Explosive ordnance" was discovered at john Nelson's home on Chadwick Road in St Helens on Tuesday, Merseyside Police said. The "reclusive" 64-year-old's property was packed with wartime memorabilia, including devices and detonators which officers feared could explode.
More than 200 homes nearby were evacuated with some families being moved to a local community centre and then a school hall. Residents have yet to be given an estimate of when they can return to their homes.
A bomb disposal team carried out a series of safe detonations in a nearby field.
They were continuing to work through the house on Thursday to ensure it was safe.
Merseyside Police earlier said the address "presented a challenge" as all the rooms in the house contained a "considerable number" of belongings that Mr Nelson had collected over the years.
In a later update, the force revealed more improvised explosive devices (IEDs) had been found.
It said the area would remained cordoned off overnight into Friday due to concerns that further devices could be found.
Some of the ordnance is believed to date back to World War Two.
Merseyside Police said Mr Nelson's father was believed to have been in the Home Guard.
Chief Inspector Chris Barnes said: 'We realise this will be a really frustrating time for those who have been displaced from their homes and would like to reassure them that we will work our way through the house, with EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) specialists, as quickly as we can, but public safety is our ultimate priority and we have to make sure the search is done properly.'Residents have been incredibly understanding and patient throughout and I know the community, families and friends have pulled together to minimise the impact this incident has on all those affected.'St Helens Borough Council continues to provide assistance based at Chain Lane Community Centre, supported by our PCSOs and I would encourage anyone with concerns to visit the centre where help will be at hand.'Motorists and pedestrians are advised to avoid the road while emergency services remain at the scene.
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