Thank you to local community following arrests in Whelford

In the early hours of yesterday morning (Sunday 27 September), five men were arrested in Whelford on suspicion of committing offences under the Explosives Act.

They were further arrested on suspicion of preparation of a terrorist act, contrary to section 5 of the Terrorism Act.

Since then, a cordon has been in place around three vehicles at the location. 

As a precaution, around 85 households were advised to evacuate and a nearby leisure centre was opened for those unable to stay with friends and family.

While the cordon still remains in place, residents are now able to return to their homes.

All the relevant agencies have been working closely together over the last 48 hours and we are all grateful for the public’s support.

Temporary Chief Constable Maggie Blyth, from Gloucestershire Police, said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the community of Whelford for their continued support and assistance during what has been an unprecedented couple of days.

“I know that many people living not just in the village but throughout that part of the Cotswolds will be feeling anxiety and uncertainty at the moment.

“Please be assured that we are doing everything we can to return your lives to normality as quickly as possible.

“In the meantime, we really do appreciate your willingness to make these sacrifices to your daily routines so that police can continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident.

“Counter Terrorism Policing are leading the investigation. I appreciate that there will be lots of questions that people have and which we simply cannot answer, in order to protect the integrity of the investigation and due to wider security risks. I would urge people to avoid speculation while these enquiries continue.

“The last 48 hours have thrown our usually quiet and peaceful communities under the spotlight of the international media.

“There have been some reports in the media that have raised questions about our response, and I want to reassure people we have responded appropriately and quickly to all calls that have been made to us.

“I would like to reiterate that you, as the public, remain our eyes and our ears and we are deeply grateful for all information that you provide to us.

“Your vigilance and co-operation is not just appreciated but vital as we all work together to ensure the continued safety of all who live and work not just in Gloucestershire but to everyone who calls our country home.”

Jane Portman, Chief Executive of Cotswold District Council, said: “I’d like to thank everyone who has played a part in supporting our community through this difficult situation, particularly residents for their patience, understanding and cooperation.

"Our council teams, staff at Cirencester Leisure Centre, the police and our other multi-agency partners have all worked incredibly hard to make sure those affected are safe, supported and looked after, including helping to ensure pets left at home are being cared for.

“It has also been heartening to hear how residents at the rest centre supported and looked out for one another during what has been a very unsettling time.

"I’m incredibly proud of the way everyone has pulled together and grateful to all those who have worked so hard to help. We will continue to be there for residents for as long as we are needed.”

Deputy Chief Fire Officer Nathaniel Hooton said: “Our crews have been working alongside the police and partner agencies to respond to this incident, and I'd like to personally thank the local community for the support they have shown throughout.

“Incidents of this nature require significant emergency service resources and can be disruptive for nearby residents. We are grateful for the cooperation shown by those affected, particularly where restrictions and safety measures have been necessary to allow officers to carry out their work safely and effectively.

“Close partnership working and a coordinated approach have been a key part of our response, and our focus remains on public safety and bringing the incident to a safe conclusion."

Jo Walker, Chief Executive of Gloucestershire County Council, said: "I would like to thank the residents of Whelford and the surrounding communities for the patience and understanding they have shown over the last few days during what has been a very difficult and unsettling situation.

"I know this incident has created uncertainty and disrupted daily life for many people. Throughout, communities have shown remarkable resilience and consideration for one another, and I am incredibly grateful for the way everyone has responded and worked with the emergency services and partner agencies.

"I am grateful to everyone involved in the response, including council staff, fire crews, police officers, and partner agencies, whose professionalism, commitment and compassion have shone through during this challenging time."