by Adam Williams

A week after a suspicious package was found in Canterbury, police are re-appealing to the public for help to catch the hoaxer.

The second alert in less than three weeks was sparked at 1.15pm last Wednesday (September 14) when a police officer discovered a suspicious package in Broad Street.

It was protruding from a metal boot scraper in an alcove next to some steps leading to a house.

The package, after being disrupted by the Bomb Disposal Unit in a controlled explosion, was recovered by Crime Scene Investigators and is undergoing forensic tests.

Police have spoken to a number of potential witnesses but still want to hear from anyone who may have been in Broad Street in the week running up to September 14.

They are keen to hear for anyone who may have seen anything unusual or anyone acting suspiciously.

Det Insp Michelle Whitehead is leading the investigation and has praised the public's response to events so far.

She said: "However insignificant you may think the information is, it may be useful to us, so please do contact us if you think you can help.

"Although the package was found to be an elaborate hoax, we take events of this nature extremely seriously, and our main priority is to ensure the safety of the public and to bring this hoaxer to justice."

Anyone with information or who saw anything suspicious should ring Kent Police on 01622 690690. Alternatively, if you have information but would prefer to remain anonymous, call Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

See this week's Kentish Gazette for more reaction to last week's events.