SCHOOLS and council buildings in the region were put into lockdown this afternoon as part of security measures following threats to staff.

Unconfirmed reports circulating on social media suggest concern had been raised about someone carrying a knife.

Middlesbrough Council locked down its buildings and schools in the town were secured after pupils left the premises.

Children were due to give a musical performance at Middlesbrough Town Hall this evening but that has been cancelled.

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The show at the Town Hall was due to start at 6pm and involved Musinc, a Tees Valley-wide programme to get children involved in music, and some parents who did not get the cancelation message arrived only to be disappointed.

A spokesperson for Middlesbrough Council said: "Following an incident involving a member of the public on Tuesday, Middlesbrough Council buildings and facilities were secured for around three hours earlier this afternoon.

“This decision was taken by the council shortly before 3pm as a precaution and in response to a specific threat made against staff.

“The temporary security measures were stood down at 6pm.

“Unfortunately, an event due to take place at Middlesbrough Town Hall on Tuesday evening was cancelled as a result of the precautionary measures.

“Council buildings and facilities including schools are scheduled to open as normal on Wednesday with Covid-19 restrictions in place.”

Newport Settlement in Middlesbrough was also not allowing anyone into or out of the building.

The town’s sports centres are all now open and following guidance.

Cleveland Police has been contacted for comment.

The council spokesman said: “We would like to apologise for the inconvenience caused.

“The council would also like to thank Cleveland Police for their support in this matter.”

A statement on the Kader Academy, Acklam, Facebook page said: "I would like to thank you all for your patience and co-operation this evening, we understand that it was a difficult situation and we cannot thank you enough for your assistance.

"I am pleased to say that children, parents and staff acted calmly and thankfully everything was resolved quickly.

"School will be open as usual tomorrow. We are looking forward to making the most of the rest of the week before we break up for the holidays."

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