Parcel of papers led to bomb scare

A package which caused a bomb scare in Welshpool turned out to be a parcel of discarded court papers, police have revealed.

Part of the town was closed off for more than two hours yesterday and dozens of people moved from the area following reports of a suspect package at Welshpool Magistrates Court.

A police spokesman said the item was declared safe by bomb experts just after 11.30 am yesterday. The Bomb Disposal Unit had been called to the building in Severn Street, following the discovery just after 9am, and the court building and street were cordoned off as a precaution.

Chief Inspector Martin Tavener of Dyfed-Powys Police said: "I'd like to praise the individual who called the police with good intent after seeing the parcel of discarded court papers.

Additionally, I would like to thank the members of the public who were extremely understanding with the inconvenience due to the road closure and evacuation of the court and surrounding area.

"I would also like to highlight the prompt and effective response to this incident from our police officers and the BDU, which enabled us to reassure the community and ensure the surrounding area was safe."

He said all court cases listed for yesterday had been cancelled because of the scare and would be listed at future hearings.