Detectives have been given more time to question a man who is being held on suspicion of terrorism offences. 

Early morning raids were carried out in Accrington and Burnley on Thursday, resulting in two men being arrested on suspicion of terrorism-related offences.

Officers have now confirmed that they have been granted an extension to quiz the Accrington man, who was arrested at his home address on Manor Street in the town.

The other man, a 33-year-old arrested in Burnley on suspicion of the dissemination of terrorist publications, has been released under investigation.

Residents in both the towns watched on in shock as counter-terrorism officers carried out the pre-planned raids on Thursday morning.

At the time, Superintendent Stasia Osiowy, of Lancashire Police, said: “I recognise that events like this can cause people to worry and impact on wider public confidence. I want to reassure people that our information and intelligence lead us to believe that there is no immediate threat to local people.

“We will continue to engage with our local communities and keep you updated and as informed as we are able to given the sensitive nature of this investigation.

Searches at the addresses continued throughout the day with many expressing their concern over the events.

A 59-year-old Manor Street resident, who did not want to be named, said: “It was about 7.10am when the riot vans, transit vans and normal police cars just pulled up.

“I was on the school run and thought what is going on here?

“Then we heard it on the radio about the people being arrested over terrorism offences. 

“It is shocking to hear about it on your doorstep. 

“It is a quiet area.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact the police on 101