Chester: Bomb disposal unit at bus station after 'security alert'

Authorities have blocked off streets in the downtown area of Chester.

The train and bus station in the city has been cleared out following a bomb threat.

Chester station shut down around 6 PM GMT, and the area was secured by police, leading to the suspension of bus services from the nearby bus terminal.

National Rail has announced that certain train services are back in operation after the station was shut down due to the alert.

Witnesses report that the local bus station has been cordoned off by the police, and photos show bomb disposal units near the scene.

A bomb disposal team was observed near the police cordon in Chester.

Train operator Northern stated that the line was "blocked" because of the alert, but they have since resumed their services.

Merseyrail and Avanti West Coast services departing from London Euston have been impacted, along with Transport for Wales trains heading to Cardiff, Crewe, Manchester, and Wolverhampton.

According to National Rail, several trains have experienced delays or cancellations as the police respond to the situation.

Travelers are advised to anticipate "significant disturbances" until around 10:00 PM GMT, as there will be numerous cancellations and delays.

National Rail announced that several train services have been canceled, and disruptions are expected to continue until around 10:00 PM GMT.

A representative from Stagecoach stated that there are no bus services operating at the station or interchange at this time because of the incident.

BBC News has reached out to Cheshire Police and British Transport Police for their statements.

Catch the finest programs from BBC Radio Merseyside on Sounds and stay connected with them on Facebook, X, and Instagram. If you have story suggestions, feel free to email them to [email protected] or reach out via WhatsApp at 0808 100 2230.