THERE was a bomb scare at a prison near York today after a suspicious package was found.

An investigation is under way at Full Sutton Prison in East Yorkshire, which houses some of the most dangerous and difficult to manage criminals in the country.

Staff called in specialist police because they were concerned that a package found at the prison was dangerous.

A Ministry of Justice spokesman said later: “A suspect package intercepted by staff at HMP Full Sutton has been deemed safe by specialist police.

“This incident will now be investigated by the prison.”

The ministry did not release more details.

Full Sutton Prison can house more than 600 male adult prisoners in purpose built accommodation that has the highest prison security rating in the country.

It only takes offenders sentenced to more than four years and does not house prisoners within 12 months of their release. It was opened in 1987.