POLICE have thanked residents for their patience after 17 homes were evacuated on Chester Road amid concerns of an explosion.

A bomb unit investigation was called to the Texaco petrol station in the early hours of Saturday morning after police investigating a burglary smelt solvents.

DC Rob McLoughlin, from Warrington CID said: "We′d like to thank those affected for their patience while emergency services ensured the premises was safe.”

Homeowners around Chester Road, Meadow Avenue and Brian Bevan Island were evacuated, police say, with a 100m cordon put up.

They stayed in a nearby hotel while the Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal team investigated the petrol station site, which is closed for renovation.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue also attended the incident.

Residents returned to their homes at around 8am on Saturday after the area was made safe.

One neighbour, who did not wish to be named, said: “We were woken by the noise outside.

“After throwing some clothes on we went outside and police were telling everyone we had to leave our houses.

“It was quite worrying because we didn’t know what was going on.

“There was a strange smell but I didn’t know what it was.

“I was quite relieved to get back home as the whole area had been cordoned off with police tape.”

Police are investigating the burglary.

Officers investigating the scene found major to an ATM machine and the roof of the garage.

DC McLoughlin added: “Police are appealing for witnesses to this incident and are asking anyone who saw anyone acting suspiciously or who saw anyone entering the premises on Chester Road late on Friday night or during the very early hours Saturday morning to contact us."

Anyone with information should call DC Rob McLoughlin on 101 quoting incident number 87 of November 30.

Alternatively, information can be given anonymously by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.