Bus services in Teesside were disrupted on Sunday after an abandoned suitcase sparked an emergency report.

Middlesbrough bus station was evacuated on Sunday afternoon, leading to some services being disrupted.

Police were alerted after a visitor left a suitcase in the Express Lounge before leaving the vehicle.

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In line with security procedures, the area was evacuated with the assistance of civic street wardens.

The bus station was closed from about 3.30pm to 4.50pm.

A Middlesbrough Council spokesman said: “Shortly after 3.30pm on Sunday, a visitor to the bus station was seen to leave a suitcase in the Express Lounge before leaving the building.

“In accordance with Bus Station security procedures, the police were alerted and the area evacuated with the help of Middlesbrough Council Street Wardens.

“Police attended and established that the item was not suspicious, and the Bus Station re-opened at 4.50pm.

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“We apologise for any inconvenience caused, and thank members of the public for their patience and understanding.”

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