Shrewsbury College students locked down after anonymous bomb threat

Armed police were seen outside at least one the campuses of Shrewsbury College, with parents reporting that students were being asked to remain in classrooms.

Shrewsbury Colleges Group confirmed that students and staff were asked to stay on campus on the advice of West Mercia Police "following receipt of an anonymous threat".

The lockdown affected all three campuses - English Bridge, Welsh Bridge and London Road.

A statement from the college said: "The police have now confirmed that the threat was a hoax.

"Lessons and other activities will proceed as normal for the rest of the day. Students may now return to all campuses for the remainder of the day."

West Mercia Police confirmed that officers were called shortly before noon when the college reported "concerns following a message they received".

Chief Inspector Tracy Ryan said: “Officers attended, and a 20-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of making a hoax bomb threat.

“Police officers have carried out a search of the area, and are satisfied that there was no risk to the college or wider public.

“However, officers will remain on patrol in the area to provide reassurance.”