(Image: North Yorkshire Police)
A social media threat led to the temporary lockdown of a packed York stadium during a rugby league match, The Press can reveal.
Thousands of fans were held inside the LNER Community Stadium in York on Saturday, July 25, during the York Knights’ game against the Huddersfield Giants and for a short time afterwards.
An announcement, as reported by The Press at the time, was made over the loud speaker during the second half, informing spectators that they could not leave due to an “incident outside the stadium".
North Yorkshire Police has now confirmed that the incident was triggered by a threat posted online.
Police have now confirmed that an online threat had led to the high police presence at Vangarde and the LNER Community Stadium in York on Saturday.
(Image: (Image Newsquest))
A force spokesman said: "We received a report of a threat that had been posted on social media.
"Officers assessed the information and carried out appropriate enquiries.
"No suspicious items or evidence of any risk to the public were located.
"We are grateful to members of the public at the location for their patience and understanding.''
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There was a high police presence in the area at the time and as supporters left, with numerous officers and several police vehicles stationed close to the stadium exits as well as around Vangarde and the leisure complex, which was busy with shoppers and people visiting Hollywood Bowl, Puttstars and Valledo Lounge.
One spectator who had been watching the York Knights game, told The Press: "They said we couldn't leave because there was an incident going on outside the stadium.''
The match concluded around 5pm, with fans permitted to leave the ground shortly afterward.
Inside the Community Stadium. Picture York City Knights RL
(Image: Picture York City Knights RL)
Another onlooker said the message to remain inside was made again towards the end of the game and once more afterwards.
North Yorkshire Police has confirmed that their enquiries are ongoing, but said no items of concern were found during their investigation.