Highbury and Islington station evacuated after 'suspect package' found on bus

Holloway Road was cordoned off during the incident

A busy north London station was evacuated during the morning rush hour after a suspect package was discovered on a bus.

Commuters were cleared from Highbury and Islington station at about 9am after police were called.

Scotland Yard confirmed they were called to an item of unattended luggage onboard a route 271 bus and specialist officers were in attendance.

It has since transpired that the package was an abandoned suitcase which was 'non-suspicious'.

Police deal with suspect package' found on bus.
Lee Turner

Solene Hoyez, 27, was on her way to work in the bus behind when it was evacuated.

She told the Standard: "When we all got off we could smell a strong smell of burning.

"We all hesitated before going to Highbury and Islington because no one was saying a word, like something terrible had happened.

"I think we just felt a bit anxious due to what happened in Paris and Brussels."

Passengers were evacuated from Highbury and Islington station
Solene Hoyez

All national rail services were unable to call at the station during the security alert.

Ms Hoyez added: "I'm extremely late now but at least no drama happened and that's the most important thing.

"I'm still a bit nervous though that it's my bus route which is going in the heart of the City."

Holloway Road closed while the incident is being dealt with 
Lee Turner

Holloway Road was closed between Highbury Corner and Liverpool Road until around 10am.

Islington and Highbury station was also reopened around 10am.

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