Major UK shopping centre evacuated after ‘security threat’

A major UK shopping centre has been evacuated after a “security threat” this morning. Shoppers have reported being told to get out of Westfield shopping centre in Stratford, east London. People attempting to enter the Westfield were turned away by emergency services attending the scene.

The reason for the lockdown is a “security threat”, according to several witnesses, as a number of police cars have been spotted outside. 

Following an inspection, the Met Police confirmed the item was not suspicious and have allowed shoppers back into the centre.

In a statement, they said: “At 10:15hrs on Wednesday, 8 May, police were alerted to a possible suspicious item at Stratford Place, E20.

“The surrounding area was evacuated as a precaution while the item is assessed. The item was found to be non-suspicious and the incident was stood down at 11:25hrs.”

For all the latest updates, follow our live blog below.

Stay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.

Follow our social media accounts here on facebook.com/DailyExpress and @daily_express