Man arrested after hoax threat sparked evacuation

A man has been arrested after hoax threats an explosive device had been placed at a library led to an evacuation, police have said.

Devon and Cornwall Police said officers were called at about 11:50 BST to Churston Library in Paignton following the threats.

The premises was evacuated and a cordon was put in place as officers carried out inquiries, but no evidence of a device was found, the force said.

A man in his 40s was arrested and he remained in police custody, it said.

Devon and Cornwall Police said the cordon had been lifted and those affected were allowed to return to the area.

It said after "extensive searches and assessment of the information received" there was no evidence of any explosive device.

"The report is now believed to have been a hoax," said police.

"We recognise that incidents of this nature can cause concern within the community and would like to thank members of the public, local businesses and residents for their patience and cooperation while officers dealt with the incident."

Follow BBC Devon on X, Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to spotlight@bbc.co.uk.