UPDATE: Swindon school to reopen after bomb threat sparks major response
Police dogs and a specialist search team are currently at a Swindon school after a bomb threat sparked a major emergency response earlier today (Wednesday).
Officers were called to Lydiard Park Academy, in Grange Park, at around 9am following a concerning email claiming a suspicious package had been left on site.
The entire school was swiftly evacuated, with pupils told to flee to the back of the school field to get as far away from the buildings as possible.
In a statement, Wiltshire Police confirmed that both staff and children had been safely evacuated following “a message sent to the school”.
The force added that nobody has been injured and urged people to “stay away from the area to allow emergency services to attend”.
At around 9.40am, approximately a dozen parents gathered outside the school gates. Officers later cordoned off the area and pushed everyone back to ensure safety.
One man demanded access to collect his child but became increasingly frustrated when he was refused entry due to the ongoing police operation.
Police dogs and a specialist search team have now arrived at the scene. They are conducting a thorough search of the premises for any potential threats.
Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) ambulance crews, fire officers and police managing the incident congregated at an RV point in the car park near Lydiard Park Hotel.
In a letter to parents, a spokesperson for the school wrote: “I am writing to inform you of an incident that occurred today at Lydiard Park Academy.
“Earlier this morning, we received an email claiming that there was a suspicious package on the school site.
“As a precautionary measure, and in accordance with our safety protocols, the decision was made to evacuate all students and staff to the designated assembly area at the back of the field.
“We immediately contacted the relevant authorities, who are currently managing the situation and conducting a thorough assessment of the premises.
“The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our highest priority, and I want to assure you that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure their protection.”
Wiltshire Police remain at the school as the investigation continues.
