Villagers have been allowed to return to their homes almost 48 hours after potentially hazardous substances were found in a house.

Police and the military bomb disposal unit have been in the Northumberland village of Glanton over the past two days after being alerted by Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service.

Firefighters were called to a fire at a home South View on Tuesday just before 9pm, and a number of potentially hazardous substances were found inside.

An investigation has been taking place to identify the substances, with bomb disposal experts, specialist search teams and forensic investigators working in a cordoned off area of the village on Wednesday and Thursday.

On Thursday evening, families who live in South View, were allowed to return to their homes and a 50m cordon has been reduced by police.

A 17-year-old boy who was arrested on Wednesday is still being questioned by police.

Police and specialist search teams and army bomb disposal at South view Glanton, Northumberland
Police and specialist search teams and army bomb disposal at South view Glanton, Northumberland

Detective Chief Inspector Jamie Pitt, of Northumbria Police , said: "I want to take this opportunity to thank the members of the public for their patience and cooperation with this investigation, it is greatly appreciated.

"All residents who were displaced have been told they can return home and the 50m cordon which was in place has been significantly reduced.

"There is no wider threat to the public and a small number of officers will remain in the area to carry out additional inquiries and to offer reassurance to residents.

"A 17-year-old male who was arrested on Wednesday remains in police custody at this time."

The British Red Cross was on site to offer support to those who were unable to return home during the evacuations.

One resident said: "This sort of thing just doesn't happen round here.

Police and specialist search teams and army bomb disposal at South view Glanton, Northumberland
Police and specialist search teams and army bomb disposal at South view Glanton, Northumberland

"The last time we saw any police round here was when Raoul Moat was found in Rothbury.

"Nothing goes on here - there's not even bother in the pub."

Anyone with any concerns is asked to speak to a nearby officer or call police on 101.