A college has been closed for the day and all students sent home because of a security threat.
Bury College is understood to have been put on ‘lock down’, with teachers being told earlier not to move from their classrooms.
The emergency measures were introduced after a threat was made against the college, and Greater Manchester Police are in attendance.
The college has just put out an updated statement.
“Following a potential threat to our security earlier today, the college instigated its security procedures as a precaution,” a spokesperson said.
“Working closely with the police, we are in the process of safely evacuating the college.
“All students are being advised to return home. Those with additional needs are being supported in this respect.
The college will be closed for the rest of today.”
A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson also just told FE Week: “At 10.50am, on Friday, March 24, police were made aware of a threat made in relation to Bury College, Market Street, Bury.
“Officers are in attendance to establish the full circumstances.
“As a precaution the college have chosen to evacuate students.”
A college spokesperson added that working closely “with exceptional support from the police, the college quickly instigated its well-rehearsed lockdown procedures”, and a safe evacuation of the college was taken as a “precautionary measure”.
Principal Charlie Deane said: “I would like to thank the staff for their professionalism and the students and other visitors for their patience and understanding. I apologise for any inconvenience that may have occurred, however, the safety of our students and staff is paramount.
“I would also like to thank the police for their speedy response, sound advice and expert help in ensuring the safe evacuation of our students”.
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