BOMB disposal experts descended on a butcher's shop after being alerted to a package which turned out to contain nothing more dangerous than vegetables.

Police and disposal officers were called to Fred Simpson and Son in Cockfield on Monday morning after concerns were raised that a strange-smelling package could contain a bomb or dangerous chemicals.

Shop staff said they decided to call police when a powdery substance leaked out. The parcel was taken into the back yard and x-rayed by the bomb disposal team, where it was found to contain vegetables.

Sgt Jeremy Downing, of Barnard Castle police, said there were concerns that the shop, which is known for its locally sourced meat, could have been targeted by animal rights extremists..

He said: "It looked like it could be some sort of chemical-related matter, but it was nothing like that when it was investigated.

"They did the right thing by calling us. They weren't happy with the parcel.

"Although there was nothing malicious, it could have turned out to be something very different."