A LARGE police presence outside QinetiQ in Malvern last night was because of someone stealing metal from a building.

Police were called at 7.01pm last night to a report of metal being stripped from a building off St Andrews Road, Malvern.

Six police vehicles were parked outside the site's Longridge Road entrance at one stage. 

Officers, police dog handlers and a police helicopter were in attendance to assist with the search.

The incident too place on part of the site which is no longer occupied by QinetiQ and which is earmarked for development.

A 39-year-old man from London has been arrested on suspicion of theft. He is currently in police custody.

Enquiries are ongoing.