FOUR people have been released on conditional bail following a dramatic swoop by police in a quiet Melksham street on Saturday (May 9).

Officers descended on Corncockle Close, off Cranesbill Road, Melksham, at around 6.30pm following reports that number plates were being swapped on vehicles.

Officers located two vehicles with false number plates which had been reported stolen, along with a number of other vehicles, from the West Wilts Trading Estate in Westbury earlier that day.

A 35-year-old woman, a 43-year-old man and a 47-year-old man, all local to Melksham, were arrested on suspicion of burglary.

A 31-year-old man from Nottingham was also arrested on suspicion of burglary and for possession of cannabis.

All four were taken to Melksham custody centre for questioning. After being released on conditional bail, they are due to return to custody on June 1.

Sgt Will Ayres said: "This was a fast paced investigation that resulted in a large police presence in a quiet residential area of Melksham.

"We would like to appeal for any witnesses to the burglary at the West Wilts Trading Estate, as a number of vehicles were taken and driven off at speed. If you heard or saw anything suspicious around this area yesterday - perhaps you saw cars being driven erratically, some with number plates and some without - then please come forward.

"I'd like to thank the people from the local community who helped officers with their enquiries last night and who were also very understanding about our presence at the scene."

To help, call 101 quoting crime reference number 54200043759.

Alternatively, you can report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.