Anti-terror police have been drafted into a seaside town after the discovery of military grenades and 'unidentified chemicals' prompted a huge evacuation.

More than 60 properties were evacuated in Lowestoft after the discovery by police in a residential street yesterday afternoon.

A bomb disposal team and anti-terror experts from the capital were later called in to take over the case.

A 100m cordon was put in place, meaning more than 60 homes were evacuated. Most locals were later allowed to return, although neighbouring properties remain empty.

Houses in this residential street in Lowestoft, Suffolk have been evacuated after chemicals and grenades were found at a home yesterday. Anti-terror police are now investigating

A spokesman for Scotland Yard said: 'Officers arrested a 59-year-old man from Suffolk on suspicion of possession of a firearm at approximately 12.10hrs on 28 July.

'The grenades were assessed and found to be inert. It is believed that the firearm is an imitation firearm.

'Met Counter Terrorism officers were called to assist as a quantity of chemicals were also recovered.

'Subsequently the man was further arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the commission, preparation and instigation of acts of terrorism.

'He has been detained under Section 41 of the Terrorism Act, 2000 and is currently in custody at a Suffolk police station.'

A bomb disposal team was called before counter-terror police took over the investigation

Detective Chief Superintendent Alexis Boon, of the Met Police Counter Terrorism Command, said: 'After a pre-planned operation by Suffolk Constabulary in which officers arrested a man, the Met Police Counter Terrorism Command is now leading this investigation, working closely with police in Suffolk.

'Suffolk Constabulary acted quickly to make the area safe, including erecting a cordon around the address as a precautionary measure while enquiries are ongoing, however we have found nothing to suggest an ongoing threat to the public.

'I would like to thank the community for its understanding and patience while officers continue this work.

'Local officers from Suffolk Constabulary Safer Neighbourhood Teams will remain at the scene over the coming days to continue to provide reassurance.'