Personnel from RAF Honington in Suffolk are among those deployed to the scene of the suspected poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal in Salisbury.

According to a spokesman for the Ministry of Defence, experts have identified the presence of a nerve agent at the scene and military units have been sent to remove a number of vehicles and objects believed to be from the area.

Personnel from RAF Honington, near Bury St Edmunds, are among 180 troops assisting police across the RAF, Army and Navy.

Around 18 military vehicles are also involved.

An Army spokesman confirmed no troops from Colchester has been deployed.

Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said: “Our armed forces have stepped up to support the police in their investigation in Salisbury, building on the vital expertise and information already provided by our world-renowned scientists from the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory at Porton Down.

“We have the right people with the right skills to assist with this crucial inquiry.

“This is a dreadful incident and my thoughts remain with the victims and their families.”

Former double agent Sergei Skripal, 66, and his daughter Yulia, 33, remain in a serious condition in hospital.

They were discovered slumped unconscious on a bench in the town on Sunday afternoon.

Police officer Det Sgt Nick Bailey, 38, who was admitted to intensive care after the incident is said to be in a ‘stable and conscious’ condition.