A bomb threat at a flower show in Shropshire is believed to be a “hoax”, police have said.
The threat was called in to the Shrewsbury Flower Show on Friday evening – prompting an evacuation of the area and a police search.
Searches will continue at The Quarry, where the two-day show is being held, in an effort to ensure people can return for the event’s conclusion on Saturday, after being cancelled following the scare.
Acts at the event include Liberty X and Go West, as well as having floral displays and celebrity chefs.
The scare also affected a BBC weather forecast that was about to go live from the site, with the presenter and her crew evacuated.
Superintendent Damian Pettit from West Mercia Police said: “At this stage we believe the threat was a hoax, but the safety of the public is our number one priority and we, along with colleagues from other agencies, will continue to complete a thorough searches.
“A huge amount of work goes into planning events like this for the community and I know it was a disappointing end to the day for visitors. I’d like to extend my thanks to everyone who was at the show this evening for their cooperation, which meant that the site was evacuated quickly and safely.”
Mr Pettit also thanked the staff at the event, adding there will be increased security measures for Saturday’s proceedings.
A tweet from Brodie_Photo on X, formerly known as Twitter, said people were told to leave “straight away and not collect anything”, adding “armed police [were] on the scene”.
Broadcaster Christina Trevanion wrote: “Thank you to all who evacuated us swiftly & efficiently today at #Shrewsburyflowershow especially wonderful Martin the Town Crier.
“We were so sad that this lovely show had to be cut short today, but safety is priority. Wishing you all the very best for a successful day tomorrow”.
A Facebook post from event organisers said people would be allowed to collect any belongings they had left behind from St Chad’s church.