THREATS made to a school by a person claiming to have a gun are now believed to be a hoax, according to police.

Golbourne High School, on Lowton Road, Wigan was locked down for several hours yesterday as a precaution after a person claimed online that they were going to go to the school with a gun.

Armed police arrived at the scene at around 10.40am but by the afternoon n one with a gun had been found and officers now believe that the claim was a hoax.

A police spokesperson said: "At around 10.42am, 22 November, police received a report online of what is now believed to be a hoax, from an individual claiming that they were going to attend a school on Lowton Road, Golborne, in possession of a firearm.

Officers attended and it was established that there was no one with a firearm present in the area.

"Enquiries are ongoing.

"Police patrols will be in the area for reassurance so please do not hesitate to speak to them if you have any concerns or questions."