[P]olice in Cumbria would like to reassure schools across the county which have received a threatening email that it is believed to be part of a national hoax.
These emails follow hoax bomb threats against schools last week. The emails inform the school that they will be targeted in an attack later today.
The schools which have received the emails have been contacted by police and given advice.
Officers do not believe there to be any threat to our communities.
Supt Matt Kennerley said: “We have received a number of calls from schools in the county reporting that they have been sent threatening emails.
“Police forces across the country are also believed to have reported similar incidents.
“We take all such reports extremely seriously and, whilst we assess the threat as being low, we appreciate people can be worried by this. As such, there will be additional dedicated patrols around the schools of the county this afternoon.
“We will continue to work closely with schools and local authorities.”
Six schools across Cumbria have received the communication.
Any schools that receive the email are asked to contact Cumbria Police on 101.
Chief Inspector Catherine Clarke, from Durham Constabulary, said: “We can confirm that at this time we believe none of the threats received by schools to date are considered to be credible.
“In the absence of any further threats being received, schools do not need to take any further action.
“If any further threats are received they should be reported immediately to police.
“We are in contact with the schools in our area to give guidance and reassurance.
“More than 100 schools in the North-East region have received the emails and we are working with neighbouring forces to establish the facts and investigate who is responsible.
“Anyone with any information that could assist police should contact Durham Constabulary on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
