Police have a 21-year-old man in custody after a bomb scare at a Yorkshire college saw a mass evacuation and major police response last night.

North Yorkshire Police were contacted after a suspicious package was found at York College, on Tadcaster Road, just after 4 pm yesterday (Wednesday, March 15).

This kicked off a massive search of the college grounds and surrounding area, with canine units and the police helicopter called in to help.

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Police have since revealed that they have taken a 21-year-old man into custody on suspicion of calling in a hoax bomb threat.

In an update, North Yorkshire Police said: “Officers will be at the college tomorrow to provide reassurance to students and staff.

“Last night, police officers carried out an extensive search of the college and the immediate area around it.

“This search involved the use of specialist resources which included detection dogs and a police helicopter.

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“Officers were satisfied there was no risk to the college or wider public and the cordon was lifted shortly after 9.30pm.

“A 21-year-old man has been arrested today on suspicion of making hoax bomb threats. He currently remains in police custody for questioning.

“This incident is not related to yesterday’s emergency services training exercise that was held in York.”