THE organisers of the Shrewsbury Flower Show have thanked everyone who helped ensure the event could continue at the weekend after an anonymous bomb threat was made. 

As a precaution, a cordon was put in place at The Quarry last Friday evening (August 11) with areas of the park being evacuated. 

Police later confirmed that they believed the threat was a hoax. 

In a post on its Facebook page, Shrewsbury Flower Show said: "After the dreadful turn of events on Friday, we would like to give a massive shout out to the local residents, bars and businesses who helped out.

"From offering teas and coffees to the police, our security team etc, to extending opening hours in order to give people somewhere to be - you were all fantastic.

"Midland Fire Rescue Service secured all the catering stands and units, turning off electricity and calor gas bottles; and then ensured they were working on Saturday - just brilliant.

"Not to mention the teams who'd travelled miles to test, check and secure the site. Thank you all so very much."

Superintendant Damian Pettit, from West Mercia Police, said that the pub's safety was the force's number one priority.

“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.  I’d like to extend my thanks to everyone who was at the show for their cooperation, which meant that the site was evacuated quickly and safely. 

“I’d also like to thank the event organisers who have worked closely with us and have not hesitated to put the safety of the public first.  We worked with them to try and keep the show going, but, as I’m sure you can understand, despite the safety checks they undertake as standard on entry, additional searching was needed."

The show continued the following morning, with increased security measures, such as bag searches, taking place. There was also an added police presence.