Police statement after Bolton St Catherine’s Academy ‘lockdown’

The Bolton News reported earlier today that the local high school went into lockdown on the advice of police as the school was close to where the incident was reported.

No arrests have been made and enquiries are ongoing.

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said: “Officers were called to reports of a man being seen with a knife on New Lane in Bolton today.

“Due to the proximity of Bolton St Catherine’s Academy the school voluntarily kept the children in the school until officer attended in supporting with the children leaving safely.

St Catherine’s School (Image: NQ)

 “The initial report did not involve the school.

 “No arrests have been made at this time and enquiries continue as well as a heavier police presence in the area.”

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Headteacher at Bolton St Catherine’s praised the young people at the school as carrying on as normal as they were kept in as part of the amber ‘invacuation’ instigated at 2.45pm.

They remained in school for about an hour and the police ensured the children left safely and were not at risk.

Head Ryan Mallet said:”Pupils carried on as normal and were fantastic. Our new Year Sevens acted perfectly and our Year Elevens were mature and got on with their work without a fuss. Primary were fantastic and there was no disruption to the working of the school.

“The situation was resolved at around 3:45pm once police arrived to ensure that any of our pupils walking home would be completely safe at our request.”

He added: “Our priority is always keeping our pupils safe. Really grateful for parents’ understanding and support. It was lovely to chat to so many on the gate afterwards.”

“As always, our pupils and staff are being fantastic, and staff acted swiftly to ensure safety.”