Shrewsbury Flower Show evacuated, fireworks cancelled after 'suspicious packages' reported

Amanda Jones of the organising team behind the flower show said that Shrewsbury's Quarry, where the event was being held, was evacuated at about 6.40pm.

Amanda Jones said: "The MOD are on their way to do a sweep after they received a call to say there are two suspicious packages at the show ground."

Police, paramedics and hazardous materials specialists were all on the scene and members of the public were advised to steer clear of the area while the Quarry was searched.

A statement from West Mercia Police said: "We’ve received an anonymous call making a serious threat to The Quarry in Shrewsbury, where the Shrewsbury Flower Show is currently being held.

"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.

"Please avoid the area and keep an eye on our social media channels for further updates."

Later on Friday, Shrewsbury town crier Martin Wood announced to the crowds gathered near the Quarry that the planned fireworks display on Friday night would be cancelled - he said: "we've closed the show down for your own safety".

"Thank you very much, we do apologise - but there's always tomorrow."

The much-anticipated fireworks display had been due to take place at about 9.50pm, but at 8.19pm the show's official Facebook page announced: "Update. The show is cancelled for today.

"Those of you who left possessions and traders: if you make your way to St Chad's in two-three hours you should be allowed access to retrieve your possessions/secure your stand.

"Very sad that this has happened today."

Crowds had been particularly excited for the return of the fireworks this year after the display at last year's show was cancelled because of a heatwave.

Three paramedic officers and the West Midlands Ambulance Service's (WMAS) Hazardous Area Response Team were in attendance.

A WMAS 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."

Shrewsbury Flower Show life member told the Shropshire Star of her experience at the show.

"We were at the show all day. We were sitting in the front row waiting for the entertainment, and then we were told to evacuate - members as well.

"We left through the blue gates. As soon as the announcement was made everybody moved and it went smoothly."