PEOPLE handling mail have been urged to keep vigilant amid growing fears of bio-terrorism.

A suspicious package was reported in a Royal Mail delivery office in Preston, and Lancashire Police have now issued advice to people who are confronted by anything suspicious.

They say post room staff for all organisations should not open a suspicious package, but if possible seal it in a plastic bag and call the police on 999. They will need to be able to give the location of the package, describe it, and say why it is suspicious and whether it has been opened.

Police will also want to know who it is addressed to, how it was delivered and whether it was expected.

The origin of the package may be significant so they should check for postmark and sender's address.

Anyone who has been in contact with the package and feels ill should ring for an ambulance.

All staff should leave the room, which should then be secured while they wait for further police advice.

Chief superintendent Adrian McAllister said the threat of bio-terrorism was small and that business should carry on as normal, but people needed to be vigilant.

Police say people sending packages that could arouse suspicion should ensure they are labelled and posted appropriately. If necessary, advise the recipient that the package is on its way, perhaps using recognised delivery systems.

A spokesperson for Royal Mail said there had been no reported incidents at Chorley's sorting office.

She added: "All our staff are always vigilant about suspicious packages anyway; it is nothing new to us."