Explosive materials were allegedly ignited in a street in West Kilbride.

There were dramatic scenes as the bomb squad and police were called to the house in Gateside Street last Wednesday after explosions could be heard by neighbouring residents.

A man has appeared in court on an explosives charges, as nearby homes in the vicinity, were evacuated.

Ryan Loye, 21, was arrested last Wednesday after police recovered substances from the property and residents were permitted to return to their homes later that evening.

Mr Loye appeared at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court last week to face charges under the Explosives Substances Act (1883). He made no plea or declaration Inspector Joe Conway of Largs Police said; “A number of homes were evacuated as a precaution and all those affected have now been allowed to return home.

“We would like to thank everyone for their patience during this incident including those evacuated. Anyone with specific concerns should contact police by calling 101.

“The road was closed off in order to get the specialists out and make sure everything from safe, and we had to get the explosive disposal team from the army to make sure.

Police had received reports of loud bangs and possible explosions from a garden in the street.

Mr Loye was charged in connection with unlawfully and maliciously causing explosion by using calcium carbide.