Malicious calls made to Devon schools

An Exeter school and two others in the South West have received malicious calls, police have said this evening.

Although they were all hoaxes, officers are taking the incidents seriously.

A spokesman said: “We are aware that hoax calls have been made to a number of schools across the country today, and have been informed of malicious calls being made to three schools within Devon and Cornwall.

“The first call was to Pinhoe School in Exeter, the second call was received at Devonport High School for Girls in Plymouth, and the third was to Charlestown Primary School, Carlyon Bay, St Austell.

“As per their school policy, Charlestown Primary evacuated pupils for a short while as precautionary searches took place. Pupils and staff at Pinhoe and Devonport were not evacuated.

“Parents have been informed by the relevant schools, and at no time were any staff or pupils in any danger.

“Whilst we are currently of the opinion that these call are without substance, as a precaution, a police presence attended all schools in question and a police presence will remain in these areas to offer reassurance.

“All three are being treated as hoax calls and will be offences under the malicious communications act. We take this extremely seriously, and condemn whoever is responsible.

“Malicious threats such as these divert police resources and cause disruption and alarm to the public and are completely irresponsible.”

If anyone has any information that can help police with their investigations, please contact 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800555 111.