Bomb scare package was found by shopping centre cleaner

UPDATE: Idlewells shopping centre in Sutton has praised the quick thinking and diligence of their staff after a suspect package caused the mall to be evacuated.
Idlewells was evacuated yesterday (May 23).Idlewells was evacuated yesterday (May 23).
Idlewells was evacuated yesterday (May 23).

Managers at the Notts shopping centre said the unidentified package, which was later destroyed in a controlled explosion and found to be non-threatening, was discovered in a toilet block by a member of the cleaning team in the course of their usual rounds.

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The centre said after the incident on Monday, May 23: "The unattended package was reported to the Police at around 1.20pm, as per our Emergency Action Plan, and the building was evacuated as advised. From then Nottinghamshire Police took control of the incident. At approximately 4.15pm a controlled explosion took place as a precautionary measure and it was later confirmed that the package was non-threatening. The shopping centre was re-opened to the public, having been declared safe by Nottinghamshire Police, at approximately 4.45pm.

Centre manager Chloe O’Donnell, “I am very proud of my staff team, they reacted and acted diligently and professionally to what could have been a life-threatening situation. As a company we hold regular staff training, adhere strictly to guidance and advice that is regularly provided and updated by Government organisations, including the Police, and can clarify that the reporting of any unattended package in a public place is standard procedure.”

“We are sorry for the inconvenience that was undoubtedly caused to many, but we are sure that the majority understand that public safety is paramount.

"Thank you to the many customers and retailers who have since indicated their support in our handling of the incident.”

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