The suspect in an investigation that saw bomb disposal teams called to the M20 has been bailed.

The motorway was shut for seven hours following a police chase which ended near Ashford yesterday.

KMTV coverage of the latest on the M20 drama

Police had pursued a speeding vehicle from Cheriton and made a "tactical hit" to bring it to a stop.

A 27-year-old man from Wales was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving and failing to stop for police. He has now been released on police bail, pending further enquiries.

The Army was called as a precautionary measure following concerns about the security of the pursued vehicle, before declaring it safe and removing it from the motorway.

Motorists were stuck for hours due to the sudden closure between Junction 9 and Junction 8 for Leeds Castle.

It has now been removed from the London-bound carriageway and the route has reopened.

However, the London-bound carriageway then shut again at 8pm to allow for scheduled works to remove the Operation Brock barrier.

The coast-bound route remained open as normal, while its counterpart reopened at 6am this morning.

A spokesman from the force said: "Kent Police wishes to thank everyone for their patience and understanding whilst the motorway was closed."

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