POLICE were called to check out what was reported to be a suspicious bag, apparently discarded in a city centre.

A small area round the waste bin where it was spotted, in the Market Place, Durham, was cordoned off, while officers scrutinised the bag in question.

The fears of those who made calls to police were quelled, however, and it was declared “non-suspicious”, containing a DVD and an electrical lead, resulting in the prompt lifting of the cordon.

Durham Police said they were alerted to the presence of the “suspicious” bag at about 11.40am, today (Wednesday, July 26).

A force spokesman said: “Officers attended and cordoned off the bag, which was found to be non-suspicious - it contained a scart lead and a DVD.

“We can confirm that there is no risk to the public.

“We would like to thank the public for their patience and support while we attended the incident.”

Anyone with any concerns about potentially suspicious packages is asked to ring 101, or 999 in an emergency.