**Bomb Disposal Experts Conduct Controlled Explosion at Denbigh High School Following Evacuation**
A Welsh high school in Denbigh was evacuated on Tuesday after the discovery of a potentially dangerous chemical prompted immediate action from staff and authorities. The incident led to the arrival of a bomb disposal squad, who later carried out a controlled explosion to ensure the safety of pupils, staff, and the wider community.
North Wales Police were quick to respond to the alert, confirming that Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) experts attended Denbigh High School on Tuesday afternoon. They reported that the chemicals in question had been safely removed from the premises and were disposed of in a controlled detonation. The removal and subsequent explosion were conducted as a precaution, after the potentially harmful substance was discovered in the school’s science department.
The controlled explosion took place without incident, and police have reassured local residents there are no ongoing risks. “We can confirm that the EOD team have attended and have safely removed the items and carried out a successful controlled explosion,” a police spokesperson stated. “There are no wider safety issues, and officers have now left the scene.”
Denbigh High School, which is home to around 500 pupils from across Denbigh, St Asaph, and neighbouring villages, was evacuated prior to the end of the school day as a precautionary measure. The school serves students aged 11 to 18 and is a significant educational hub in the region. The decision to clear the premises was made on expert advice, highlighting the commitment of school leadership to student and staff safety.
The headteacher addressed families via the school’s official social media channels on the afternoon of the incident. “We have had to evacuate the school building early this afternoon on advice due to the discovery of historical chemicals within the chemical store cupboard in the science department,” the statement read. Families were further reassured that, while the evacuation may have caused some disruption, it was enacted to ensure the wellbeing of all.
Pupils were able to return home as per usual transport arrangements, although the school confirmed that the incident had accelerated the close of the day by approximately ten minutes. For many parents, the speed and professionalism shown by staff and authorities helped to mitigate any potential anxiety about the rare emergency.
The unearthed chemicals were believed to be “historical,” raising questions about how long the substances had been stored in the school’s science facilities. Incidents involving old or forgotten chemicals in educational settings are not unprecedented in the UK, with schools periodically reviewing safety protocols to account for risks associated with ageing stock.
In the immediate aftermath, police and school officials publicly thanked the patience and cooperation shown by students, staff, and the local community during the incident. “Thanks to the local community for their understanding and patience whilst this matter was dealt with – diolch yn fawr iawn,” read the North Wales Police statement.
There is no ongoing risk associated with the incident, and both the police and school have now resumed normal operations. As a matter of routine, authorities urge all educational institutions to periodically audit and securely store chemicals in accordance with safety regulations. This incident serves as a timely reminder of the importance of regular review and disposal of hazardous materials, even in environments as familiar as local schools.
The situation is now resolved, with the school expected to review its chemical handling and storage policies in light of the narrowly averted hazard. No injuries were reported, and educational activities are expected to return to normal.