A DISABLED man traumatised by his arrest on suspicion of bomb-making has served police with a writ.

Solicitors acting for Stockton resident Francis Owens have lodged a damages claim with Cleveland Police for trespass on property, unlawful arrest and false imprisonment.

The 49-year-old, who has limited movement in his right arm and steel pins in both legs, was held in custody by police for six-and-a-half hours and released on police bail, but was told weeks later he was not required to report back to Stockton police station.

Mr Owens, a leading opponent of Stockton Borough Council's plans to demolish 500 houses on the town's Hardwick council estate, was arrested last December on suspicion of putting a pipe bomb under the caravan of Keith Frost, the pro-demolition chairman of Hardwick Residents' Association.

Solicitors from Watson Woodhouse, acting for Mr Owens, are questioning whether there ever was a bomb and have asked to see police incident reports and documentation.

Mr Owens said: "It was like something out of a film, the fact I was locked up in the cells and questioned about things like this. It was utterly and totally unreal. The whole thing was mad.

"They turned my home over and took my computer away in full view of my neighbours.

"It has changed my opinion of the police. I really will have nothing to do with the police from now on."

Solicitor Angela MacFarlane said: "We have claimed for trespass on his property, unlawful arrest, and false imprisonment."

A Cleveland Police spokesman said: "We have received notice of legal action from a solicitor representing Mr Owens and, as such, it would be inappropriate to comment."

Mr Frost said yesterday that a device had been found under his caravan and said he had not known of the arrest of Mr Owens.