Man charged after incendiary device left at shopping centre

Detectives investigating an incident where an incendiary device was left at a shopping centre have charged a man, police have said.

People had to be evacuated from the Fishergate Shopping Centre in Preston after a member of the public found the device - described as "crude" - in the toilets at around 9.10am on December 17. The device ignited but caused no real damage and no injuries.

Bomb disposal officers were called and the centre was closed all day for precautionary checks.

Lancashire Police said David Rutherford, 24, of Barry Avenue, Ingol, is accused of making an explosive with intent to endanger life/injure property.

He will appear at Preston Magistrates' Court on Thursday.

A 27-year-old man from Preston who was also arrested in connection with the investigation was released on police bail until January 28. At this stage there is not thought to be any connection between the two men, police said.