Police were today applying to Basildon magistrates for more time to interview a suspected bomber.

A 38-year-old man, from Epping, was arrested on Monday night in connection with a letter bomb explosion in Delhi Road, Pitsea.

Kelly Diggens, 18, and her 18-month-old baby Tommy had a miraculous escape after Kelly picked up a package from her doorstep.

She took it inside and began unwrapping it but became suspicious when she spotted a battery and wires sticking out.

She dropped the parcel, grabbed Tommy and ran. As they cowered in the kitchen, the bomb exploded, shattering all the downstairs windows of the house.

The pair, along with Kelly's brother Steve, 14, and parents Jane and Keith, are now under police protection and helping officers with their inquiries.

A police spokesman said: "No person has been charged yet.

"An Epping man will be taken before the court to seek an extension to detention time."

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