Shrewsbury Flower Show Is Evacuated Over serious Threat

Police were yesterday searching a park long into the night after visitors to the Shrewsbury Flower Show were evacuated following a bomb threat.

Officers spent several hours combing the grounds of Shrewsbury's Quarry - where the two-day event is being held - after it was cleared at around 6.40pm following an anonymous phone call.

West Mercia Police said it believed the 'serious threat' was a hoax but continued to investigate, and called for calm following the evacuation.

The force also warned those looking to return to the festival tomorrow of bag searches and increased security. 

Superintendent Damian Pettit said in a statement: 'At this stage we believe the threat was a hoax, but the safety of the public is our number one priority and we, along with colleagues form other agencies, will continue to complete thorough searches.

'A huge amount of work goes in to planning events like this for the community and I know it was a disappointing end to the day for visitors.' 




Shrewsbury Flower Show was evacuated after police received an anonymous call making a 'serious threat'





Video footage shows people evacuating the scene after the mysterious phone call was made 

Explaining that the show is expected to open as usual on Saturday, Mr Pettit added: 'I'd like to reassure people that, on top of the security the event organisers have in place as standard such as bag searches on entry, there will also be increased measures in place tomorrow to ensure that everyone attending can have an enjoyable and safe day. 

'You may also see an increased police presence in and shrewsburyurc.co.uk around the area tomorrow.

'Once our searches are complete an investigation will be launched to understand the nature of this evening's threat, and we won't hesitate to take action where appropriate.'

Mr Pettit said earlier: '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.


@ShropshireStar shrewsbury flower show evacuated, people told to leave straight away and not collect anything. Armed police on scene, suspected terrorist threat pic.twitter.com/tjzdUkX5Wy

— Brodie Photo (@Brodie_Photo) August 11, 2023




West Mercia Police has urged visitors to stay calm as they prowl the park following the mysterious phone call

'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.'

Amanda Jones, of the event's organising team, 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.

'It is expected to take around two hours. The hope is that people can go back in for the fireworks but we don't know yet.'

The firework display was due to start at around 9:50pm.