How emergency services reacted to a bomb hoax in Bolton features in an episode of the BBC’s ‘Ambulance’.

The show follows paramedics and their colleagues in the emergency control room at North West Ambulance Service (NWAS).

Filmed in 2023 across the region, one of the areas hardest hit by the cost-of-living crisis, the ambulance service increasingly acts as a vital safety net for those struggling to cope. 

As they start a new 12-hour shift, the team in control are already busy with reports of an unexploded bomb. 

READ MORE: Bomb disposal team called after suspicious item found

Multiple resources, including the specialist Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) and the bomb squad are dispatched, with crews told to assemble at a safe point while the scene is assessed. The suspect package is close to a primary school and a nursery, in Astley Bridge, so a 100m cordon is put in place to address safety concerns. 

The Bolton News: The show follows paramedics and their colleagues in the emergency control room at North West

The incident happened in March and a cordon was in place on Blackburn Road, close to Sweetloves Lane, Andrew Lane, Holden Avenue, and Thorncliffe Road, preventing traffic from going any further.

The suspicious package was found at the bottom of Sweetloves Lane.

Astley Bridge: Bomb disposal team called after suspicious item found

The Bolton News:

The ambulance crews on the ground report back to control that a controlled explosion will be necessary, and they are able to clear from the scene without any casualties. 

In Bury, paramedics Andrea and Michelle are dispatched to an elderly lady who has fallen. Because she can’t remember the details of the fall, they decide to take her to hospital. 

Discovering the patient lost her husband just two weeks ago, the crew offer kindness and empathy on the journey to hospital. 

You can watch the episode on BBC i-player.