Schools across Liverpool plunged into lockdown as parents sent 'stay away' alert

Schools across Liverpool plunged into lockdown as parents sent 'stay away' alert Schools across Liverpool have been plunged into lockdown over 'a threat of violence' - parents were sent a message urging them not to try to collect their children Several schools have been locked down this morning after "a communication containing a threat of violence". A number of Liverpool schools received the threat this morning and activated enhanced safety procedures after receiving emails which were later determined to be a hoax, authorities said. Merseyside Police has confirmed enquiries are ongoing after reports of malicious communications at a number of schools, Liverpool Echo reports. A spokesperson for the force said: "A number of schools have received similar email communications and enquiries are ongoing. At this stage, these are all believed to be hoaxes, and we will be looking to identify those involved and take appropriate action." Gateacre School in Belle Vale is one of the schools impacted. In an email sent to parents and guardians this morning, the school assured them: "The school day has started safely, and all pupils and staff are safe. "You may or may not already be aware that a communication has been received containing a threat of violence towards schools across Liverpool. "I want to reassure you that this is not being managed by Gateacre School in isolation. Our response is being coordinated with Liverpool City Council and Merseyside Police, and we are following the advice and guidance provided to us. "The school day has started safely, and all pupils and staff are safe. "Please do not approach the school grounds, attempt to come onto the school site, or make arrangements to collect or make direct contact with your child/children unless we specifically contact you and ask you to do so as we are in lockdown. This is important in allowing us, the police and other agencies to maintain the safety." Merseyside Police Chief Inspector Chris Bland said: "We understand that parents and carers will be concerned and as a result we are liaising with all schools and providing advice and reassurance as enquiries continue. "Based on the information we have received and assessed, there has been no requirement for those schools to close." This is a Breaking News story. You’ll be more likely to see our stories when any big news breaks in future by simply by clicking this link. You can also join The Mirror’s WhatsApp Community or follow us on Google News, Flipboard, Apple News, TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads - or visit The Mirror homepage.