SHOPS and part of Salisbury's Christmas market were evacuated yesterday and a city centre road closed after a suspicious package was found.

It turned out to be an "unattended rucksack" and no risk to the public.

Queen Street was cordoned off and staff from Well Natural, Crew Clothing, and Cotswold Outdoor were evacuated, along with food stallholders from the Christmas market.

A police spokesman said: "Glad all was in order and there was no safety issue in this case, however we would remind the public to never leave any bags/luggage unattended."