Shrewsbury Flower Show evacuated following "serious threat"

West Mercia Police said they had received an anonymous call.

The Quarry, Shrewsbury
Author: Kellie MaddoxPublished 11th Aug 2023
Last updated 11th Aug 2023

Police have evacuated the Shrewsbury Flower Show after receiving an anonymous call making a serious threat to The Quarry.

As a precaution, a cordon has been put in place and areas of the park are being evacuated. A thorough search of the area is being undertaken by specially trained officers.

West Mercia Police are advising people to avoid the area.

A message on the Shrewsbury Flower Show Facebook page said: " The show is cancelled for today. Those of you who left possessions and traders. If you make your way to St Chads in two - three hours you should be allowed access to retrieve your possessions/ secure your stand. Very sad that this has happened today.

An earlier post read: "Due to a security alert the show ground has been evacuated. The MOD are coming from Cheshire to do a full sweep of the park, this is likely to take two hours."

As well as police, three paramedic officers and the Hazardous Area Response Team are also at the site.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “As a precaution, West Mercia Police have put a cordon in place and areas of the park are being evacuated.

“Please avoid the area at present and follow the advice from police officers at the scene.

“Tonight’s firework display has been cancelled as a precaution.”

“Superintendent Damian Pettit, said: “I know that the Shrewsbury Flower Show is a big event which has attracted significant crowds, particularly with today’s lovely weather, and that this threat may be alarming for visitors to the show.

“I would urge visitors to stay calm and follow the advice of officers in the area. They are there to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.

“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 so are unable to provide any further information, but will update you as soon as possible via our Facebook and Twitter accounts, as well as on our website.”

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