Cumbria Police has confirmed that a cordon, which was in place in Whitehaven following the discovery of a suspicious item, has been lifted.

At 7:35pm on Wednesday, September 10, the police were contacted by staff at The Snecklifter pub on Duke Street regarding concerns about a bag containing items which they had found.

Detective Chief Inspector Paddy McDonnell, Cumberland CID, said: “Our enquiries remain ongoing.

“We are aware of speculation on social media which has circulated and understand this may cause concern to residents.

“We can reassure the public that the items found have been assessed by experts and there is no known risk to the public, who can go about their day as normal.

“There remains a police presence in the area as we carry out our enquiries.”

As initial enquires were carried out, a precautionary 50 metre cordon was put in place. This cordon was lifted in the early hours of this morning.

The items found have been assessed by experts, including the Explosive Ordinance Disposal team, and do not pose any risk to the public.

Initial enquiries have found that the bag had been in the pub for approximately three months.

No criminal offences have been identified at this stage.

Investigative enquiries remain ongoing to establish the full circumstances and identify who the items belonged to.