Allow Exco Player content
This content is provided by Exco Player and may use cookies or similar technologies. Please click 'Allow and Continue' below to load the content.
A fake explosive which triggered a bomb scare at Old Trafford was “incredibly lifelike”, police say.
The suspicious object was blown up by army bomb disposal experts in a controlled explosion after Manchester United’s stadium was evacuated on Sunday afternoon.
The item looked like a mobile phone attached to a pipe and was spotted by a staff member, according to the Manchester Evening News.
It was discovered about 20 minutes before kick-off inthe team’s final match of the season against Bournemouth. The game was abandoned as a result of the security alert.
Police described the explosive as "incredibly lifelike"GettyGreater Manchester Police saidon Twitter: "Bomb disposal experts carried out controlled explosion at Old Trafford on what is described as incredibly lifelike explosive device...
Read More
“Full assessment now concluded and found device wasn't viable. A full search of the stadium is ongoing. Full update to follow.”
The Stretford End and Sir Alex Ferguson Stand were evacuated after an announcement was made for security staff to invoke “operation red code”.
Shortly after 3.15pm, those remaining in the 75,000-seater stadium were told the game was off.
Manchester United fan Louise Berney, 33, told the Mirror: “I had just gotten into the stadium and had bought a programme at the kiosk when a code red alert was announced on the system.
“I’m a little bit of a worrier and I thought ‘Oh God, what does that mean?’
Bomb disposal van leaves Old Trafford after the game is abandonedMartin Rickett/PA“I could see the stewards looking at each other.”
It is understood that both sets of players were kept in the dressing rooms for around 40 minutes before being taken to a suite, being looked after by security and hospitality staff.
Assistant Chief Constable John O'Hare, from Greater Manchester Police, said: “We don't make these decisions lightly and we have done this today to ensure the safety of all those attending.
“I am thankful for everyone's support and assistance and we will continue to provide updates on this matter as soon as they become available.”
A date has yet to be set for the match to be played.