Real IRA probe: More time to question man

British police have been granted more time to question a 35-year-old man in relation to Real IRA attacks.

The man can be questioned at a West Yorkshire police station until Monday, while police search three residential addresses and a farm in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.

The head of Britain's Anti-Terrorist Branch, Deputy Assistant Commissioner Alan Fry, has said: ‘‘This is part of the ongoing investigation into the Real IRA attacks starting with Hammersmith Bridge in July 2000.

‘‘He was arrested on suspicion of involvement in terrorism.’’

Detectives initially had 48 hours to question the man, who is of Irish origin, but can apply for extensions of up to one week under the Terrorism Act.

A Scotland Yard spokesman said: ‘‘The operation is ongoing and we are not in a position to confirm further details at this stage.’’

Locals near the farm in Derbyshire said the area is quiet, friendly and close-knit.

They said the police presence - and the arrest - had come as a shock.

A neighbour said the man had only recently married and had invited him to his wedding at a local club.

His wife, who has two children - a boy and a girl from a previous relationship - was thought to be pregnant.

‘‘He helps everybody,’’ the neighbour continued. ‘‘He is a nice bloke. He fixed my brother’s jeep.’’

A regular in one of the many local pubs near the scene said: ‘‘He’s been a friend of mine for the last 10 years. He drives lorries and is a diesel fitter.

‘‘We weren’t that close but I knew him from having a drink in the pub. He wouldn’t do any harm to anyone and would do anything for anyone.’’