Bury College evacuated after 'Twitter security threat'

Bury College was put on lockdown this morning after receiving a security threat on Twitter.

Greater Manchester Police attended the scene after they were informed of the social media threat at 10.50 am today.

Students and teachers were told to stay in their classrooms, with one pupil tweeting that teachers had said ‘there was a message sent to the college with a threat about coming into the college with a weapon.

The building was later evacuated.

A statement from Bury College said: ‘Staff at Bury College reacted swiftly today in response to a potential threat.

‘Working closely with exceptional support from the police, the college quickly instigated its well-rehearsed lockdown procedures.

‘A safe evacuation of the college was taken as a precautionary measure. The college remained closed for the rest of the day and will reopen as usual on Monday.’

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Charlie Deane, principal of Bury College 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 our students.’