Police hunt hoax caller after “false alarm” evacuation at Oulder Hill and Redwood School

Classes have returned to normal with all staff and pupils back safely inside Oulder Hill and Redwood School after an evacuation this morning (23 May).

Police officers searched the buildings and playgrounds after an anonymous call claimed there was a bomb on site, prompting a swift evacuation of almost 1,000 pupils and staff.

Greater Manchester Police attended the scene shortly after 11.30am and conducted a thorough search of the building, although it turned out to be a hoax.

GCSE examinations were in place this morning but had finished before the evacuation took place and were not disrupted by the incident.

A spokesperson from Greater Manchester Police said: “shortly after 11.30am Monday 23 May 2016, police were called to Redwood Secondary School, Hudsons Walk, in Rochdale to reports of a suspicious item.

“Officer from the GMP’s Rochdale borough attended but no suspicious items were found.

“Pupils and staff were evacuated while officers conducted searches before being allowed back into the building.

“An investigation into the phone call is now underway.”

It is believed the anonymous call was also made to 12 others schools across the country.