FEARS over what proved to be a forwarded email relating to an American school, which was interpreted as a possible threat to Gable Hall school in Corringham this lunchtime sparked a precautionary reaction from the school and its staff.

However, a police investigation after officers were immediately deployed, has located the source if the email, which contained a gun threat, and it declared there was no danger.

The school instigated precautionary measures to ensure the safety of students, which in turn sparked messages to parents from some students which sparked concern.

Earlier Nub News reported police had been contacted but at that point there was no other official statement from the school or force.

A statement from Essex police has now been issued. It reads: We received a report of threat to Gable Hall School, in Corringham, shortly before 11am this morning.

"Units were immediately sent to the scene to ensure the safety of staff and pupils.

"Our investigations have determined this was a hoax and there is no threat to the school.

"Our enquiries are ongoing. Officers will remain on the scene for reassurance for staff, pupils and parents."

A statement from the school says: "Ortu Gable Hall school are committed to the safety of all of our pupils, staff and community.

"Earlier today a student located a cutting from a newspaper article in the USA which had the initials 'GHS' on it and today's date, along with a threat.

"This cutting was passed round by social media between students who reported it to staff. As with all incidents of this nature, we followed procedure and involved the police. No one was ever in any danger.

"We are very thankful to Essex Police for their urgent and professional response and swift actions this morning. We also want to thank all the parents who supported us, from home, at the gates and on the phones today.

"All our staff were brilliant at putting children first."