Royal Mail sorting offices searched by police over 'suspicious packages'

Police are searching two Royal Mail sorting offices after reports of a “suspicious package”.

Avon and Somerset Police are searching the Royal Mail sorting offices in Filton and Bath, and have asked the public to avoid the areas while the searches take place.

The force said in a statement: “At 2.17am this morning we were made aware of reports of a suspicious package at the Royal Mail sorting office in Filton.

“Specialist officers attended and established the package could have been transported to the Bath delivery office.

“We don’t believe there to be any risk to the public but ask people to avoid the area while the searches take place,” it added.

Local newspaper Bristol Post reported a “major police presence” around the depot in Filton, with the surrounding area cordoned off.

A Royal Mail spokesperson said: "Bristol Mail Centre and Bath Delivery Office have been evacuated as part of an ongoing police operation.

"Customers in the South West region may experience disruption to services. We are working hard to process and deliver mail where possible."

A Post Office depot located near the Royal Mail sorting office has been reportedly evacuated “along with other local businesses”.

A spokesperson told the Bristol Post that police are investigating a “bomb threat” and staff were asked to evacuate the area.