Residents and businesses have been evacuated after suspected Second World War bombs were discovered at a wedding venue near the Wiltshire border.
Emergency services were called to Long Newnton, between Malmesbury and Tetbury, at around 9.50am this morning (Monday).
Five items believed to be bombs dating back to the Second World War were initially discovered in the grounds of The Great Tythe Barn.
Further suspected explosives have since been found, with the venue warning that the evacuation zone may need to be extended.
A 200-metre cordon was initially established around the site, with nearby residents and businesses evacuated as a precaution.
Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) specialists were called to the scene to assess the items and make them safe.
In a statement, The Great Tythe Barn said: “Earlier today, five items believed to be Second World War bombs were discovered in the grounds of our venue.
“We contacted the police straight away, and the area was cordoned off while specialist bomb disposal experts were called in to assess the situation and deal with them safely.
“Further items have since been found, and in line with standard protocol, the evacuation zone may be extended.
“This situation is changing quickly.
“We are asking everyone to stay away from the area and to follow the instructions of the emergency services at all times.
“We are grateful to the police and bomb disposal teams for their swift response.”
Police previously confirmed that bomb disposal personnel were expected to carry out a controlled detonation of the items this afternoon.
Members of the public are being urged to stay away from the area until emergency services have declared it safe and the cordons have been lifted.
The total number of suspected explosives discovered and the number of properties evacuated have not yet been confirmed.
