A 45 year old man from Wilmslow who pleaded guilty to making an explosive for an unlawful purpose was sentenced to eight months today at Chester Crown Court.
On sentencing Andrew James Speakman, of Beech Lane, the Judge Elgin Edwards thanked police and firefighters for their professionalism throughout the incident, during which residents were evacuated and officers worked throughout the night to ensure the safety of the public.
At 9.31pm on Thursday 9th March, police were called to a house in Beech Lane, Wilmslow after residents reported hearing a loud explosion.
As a precautionary measure the occupants of 12 properties were evacuated to Wilmslow Leisure Centre while a full search of the property took place and the scene was declared safe. A number of chemicals were found stored in the house including hydrogen peroxide, hydrochloric acid and plant food.
The explosion blew a hole in the garden fence but did not cause any significant damage to the property in Beech Lane, or to any adjoining premises.
Andrew Speakman was left blinded in one eye by the explosion though.
Investigating officer DC Craig Lindfield said: "Speakman was sentenced to eight months but was released due to time served while on remand.
"We would like to thank the local residents for their patience and cooperation after having to leave their homes overnight."
