Telford Shopping Centre has been evacuated after ‘serious threat’.
Telford Ice Rink and the Southwater Way area have also been evacuated. Specially trained officers are currently searching Shropshire town centre.
The area was cleared by police and has now been cordoned off following an anonymous threat was made over the phone this afternoon.
Superintendent Edward Hancox of West Mercia Police is urging visitors to ‘stay calm and follow advice’ of the officers.
‘I understand Telford Shopping Centre is a busy place, especially during the summer and holidays, and that this threat may be alarming for visitors,’ he said.
Telford Shopping Centre has been evacuated after ‘serious threat’ made in an anonymous phone call
Superintendent Edward Hancox of West Mercia Police is urging visitors to ‘stay calm and follow advice’ of the officers
Telford Shopping Centre has been evacuated after ‘serious threat’
He added: ‘Thank you to all the visitors who have already cooperated with our officers, it is much appreciated and a huge help in situations like this.
‘At this stage we are assessing the threat and therefore are unable to provide any further information at this time.
‘We will update you as soon as possible via our Facebook and Twitter accounts, as well as on our website.’
A spokesperson for the police said: ‘As a precaution, a cordon has been put in place and the shopping centre and town centre is being evacuated.
‘A thorough search of the area is being undertaken by specially trained officers.’
Telford Balloon Fiesta is being held this afternoon at Telford Town Park, near the shopping centre.
The event is due to start at 5pm – it is unclear whether this will still be going ahead.
Telford and Wrekin Council said it’s working with the emergency services
The area was cleared by police and has now been cordoned off following an anonymous threat was made over the phone this afternoon
Superintendent Edward Hancox of West Mercia Police is urging visitors to ‘stay calm and follow advice’ of the officers
Last year the balloon festival was called off after the site reached its capacity and crowds were refused entry.
Telford and Wrekin Council said: ‘We are aware of an ongoing incident in Telford Shopping Centre.
‘A cordon is currently in place and the area is being evacuated.
‘We are working with the emergency services and will update when we know more.’
