POLICE evacuated a Taunton Primary School after a hoax caller told staff there was a "suspicious device" on the premises. 

The threat was made to Holway Park Primary School this afternoon (October 11) and police are now appealing for information.

A spokesperson from Avon and Somerset Police said: "This afternoon we were called to the Taunton school after they were told that a suspicious device had been placed on the grounds.

"As a precaution and with public safety our primary concern the school was evacuated and the school searched by specialist police officers and dogs. Nothing suspicious was found and the incident is being treated as a hoax."

Inspector Stuart Bell added: "This incident caused significant disruption to the school and local community.

"These incidents are taken very seriously and well-rehearsed plans for incidents such as this were put into action.

"We never underestimate the impact evacuation and police attendance has and we would like to thank everyone affected for their patience and understanding this afternoon."

Holway Park Community Primary school head Susan Brewer said children were evacuated from school buildings to playing fields on a cold and wet afternoon – but within minutes the community rallied around with hot drinks and blankets for the shivering children.

“I’d like to thank all those who helped us out, the children were superb, parents very understanding and the staff and local community really stepped up,” she said.

Police are now investigating the incident which took place shortly before home time at the school. Children had to be passed over the school perimeter fence as there was no access to the school's gate.

“It was unusual but most parents understood we could not go back into the buildings so obviously we couldn’t use the phone to warn them,” said Susan.

Anyone with information about the incident should contact Taunton CID on 101. Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously 0800 555111.