Majority of Ipswich cordon lifted after discovery of suspicious package in Friars Street

Police have lifted the majority of a large scale cordon which saw homes evacuated after the discovery of a suspicious package in Ipswich.

Officers received a call at about noon to a report that the package was found next to a building in Friars Street.

Police have since confirmed the package did not pose any threat to the public.

They sealed off the area including St Nicholas Street, Falcon Street, Cromwell Square, Civic Drive, Princes Street, Museum Street, Westgate Street, King Street and Elm Street.

A number of buildings in the area including homes were evacuated before the device was assessed by ordnance disposal specialists.

The majority of the cordon has been lifted and residents who were evacuated have been told they can return to their properties.

However, a small area will remain cordoned off in Friars Street and St Nicholas Street while an investigation is under way.

Temporary Superintendent Andrew Martin said: “We would like to thank the residents, businesses and general public of Ipswich for their support and co-operation this afternoon.

"We know that this will have caused some disruption and everyone’s understanding was greatly appreciated.”

Anyone who was in the Friar Street area between 11am to noon and has information about the incident is asked to contact Suffolk Police, quoting 138 of October 21.