Evacuations after suspicious envelopes found

Public buildings, offices, homes and roads were closed after two suspicious envelopes were found at a council building - prompting fears about ongoing abuse.

Hertsmere Borough Council said a 100m (328ft) cordon was put in place by police after the items were discovered at the Civic Offices in Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, on Wednesday.

Chris Gray, the cabinet member for community safety, said the response followed not only the suspicious envelopes but also a "serious death threat" aimed at the council leader Jeremy Newmark, made in recent months.

He said Newmark had been subjected to harassment from a "neo-Nazi" that sought to target his home.

Gray explained that photographs of Newmark's car and registration plate had been circulated on social media, and AI-generated images depicting him "killing and burying foxes and local wildlife" had been widely shared.

He defended the police response, saying it was "right that all threats and concerns are assessed by the police and other professionals".

Hertfordshire Police said the envelopes were examined by specialist officers and it was established that the items were "non-hazardous" and the origin of the letters was "entirely legitimate".

Separately, police have confirmed that officers are investigating threats made to an individual associated with Hertsmere Borough Council, which were received by letter on 10 July.

They said the investigation remained ongoing and the victim was being supported by officers.

Gray added: "Above all, we call on all elected officials, community groups and everyone involved in civic life to work with us to build a climate of public debate in which we can disagree with dignity and respect - and, together, a community we can all be proud of."

He thanked people who had offered "solidarity and support" to Newmark and the council.

Newark said he had "nothing to add at this stage".

Do you have a story suggestion for Beds, Herts or Bucks? Contact us below.

Follow Beds, Herts and Bucks news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.