ONE of the two men arrested in Blackburn as part of a nationwide terror swoop was released without charges last night.

The 25-year-old, who has not been officially named by police, was released just before 9pm, after being held since his arrest on Tuesday.

It is believed the man is Zamir Hussain, of Shakeshaft Street, passenger in the gold Mercedes surrounded by armed officers on Preston Old Road.

Mr Hussain, a car salesman, was said to be returning from an auction in Chorley when the drama unfolded. He was arrested along with Junaid Feroze, a married father-of-three of Malham Gardens.

A spokesman for the Metropolitan Police said: "A 25-year-old man arrested in Lancashire under the Terrorism Act on August 3, 2004, was released without charge this evening shortly before 9pm. The man received legal representation throughout his detention.

"At this stage it would be inappropriate to provide further details concerning the operation and the arrests."Junaid Feroze is still being held by police in London, who have until Sunday to continue their questioning after an extension was granted earlier in the week.

A spokesman for Lancashire Constabulary added: "Lancashire Constabulary has supported the operation carried out by the Metropolitan Police Service's anti terrorist branch.

"Although this is an unsettling time for people in and around the Blackburn area Lancashire Constabulary is grateful for the support it receives from communities. We are working hard to reassure our communities during what is an uncertain time.

"We continue to have an open dialogue with our community representatives and internal support groups within the constabulary because we are committed to maintaining this positive relationship.

"Lancashire Constabulary has offered support to those affected by the arrests through specialist officers and we will continue to offer this support for as long as it is required."

It has been suggested that one of the 11 people still being questioned could be a senior member of terrorist organisation al Qaida.