A SUSPICIOUS package sent to the Social Services in Bolton sparked a security scare.

The letter, which contained a white powder substance, was delivered to offices in Queen Street on Monday at around 11am. Concerned staff who had opened the envelope contacted the police and the letter was isolated in a room.

A police spokesman said: "The package was analysed and it was confirmed that it was not hazardous. It was taken away and destroyed. Inquiries were carried out into who sent the letter. It was decided that no crime has been committed and there could have been an innocent explanation for the powder."

A Bolton Council spokesman said: "The usual procedures were followed and the incident was dealt with swiftly by the police."