Security alert in Derry : Residents now evacuated following closure of school

Inspector Vince Redmond said this afternoon (Monday): “Our officers remain at the scene of a security alert in the Buncrana Road area of Derry/Londonderry following the discovery of a suspicious object this morning.

“A number of homes have now been evacuated in the Slievemore area.

“Templemore Sports Complex has been opened as a rest centre.

“We appreciate the disruption this is having. We will work to ensure this is kept to a minimum. We want to thank the community for their patience. We will keep you updated.”

This morning pupils and staff at St Columb’s College were evacuated on their first day back after the usual week-long October break was extended to two weeks.

Parents were contacted directly to collect their children.

Cordons have been put in place across the area.

Sinn Féin MLA Karen Mullan has said a security alert near St. Columb’s College has caused major disruption in the area.

The Foyle MLA said:“There is major disruption at the Collon Lane area this morning following a security alert.

“St. Columb’s College has been evacuated and pupils and staff have been sent home.

“This is disgraceful and the last thing that pupils, teachers and parents need this morning, particularly as children return to the first day back after the break.

“I would urge people to avoid the area until the alert ends.”