A police station was locked down after fears of a 'suspicious package'.

Thames Valley Police warned members of the public that Slough police station was shut at around 4pm yesterday (Thursday, September 14).

This prompted concern from locals who asked whether the closure was permanent and why a reason hadn't been given.

On approaching Thames Valley Police, the Observer found that emergency services had been dealing with a 'suspicious package'.

Deputy local policing area commander for Slough, Chief Inspector Ash Smith, said: “Slough police station was closed while we dealt with a suspicious package yesterday (September 14), along with Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service and South Central Ambulance Service, which turned out to be harmless.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused by closing the police station to the public for several hours. It is open as usual today (September 15).”

Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Services said they were called to assist with the incident at Slough Police Station on Windsor Road at 3:07pm.

Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service crews from Slough and Maidenhead were sent to the scene, together with crews from Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service and five officers.

The initial report of the package was made at 2:45pm and emergency services were at the scene for three hours, during which the police station closed and did not re-open.