An investigation has been launched after malicious emails were sent to a number of schools in the North West, police have said.

Lache Primary School, in Chester, initially notified parents on its Facebook page that they would be unable to pick up their children after the message had been received.

In a statement, it said: “We are aware that parents have arrived outside school.

“To repeat, we cannot let any children out or any parents in. As we have stated this is a precautionary measure following an unpleasant email that has been sent to a number of schools in Cheshire, Liverpool and Manchester.

“There is not a threat on site. We have locked down the school to ensure that everyone is safe. Which they are.

“The police are dealing with the situation and are very happy with the measures that we have in place.”

It later changed that advice, saying the email was “believed to be a malicious hoax” and children would be allowed to leave by year group.

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Blacon High School, also in Chester, said it had put additional measures in place after receiving the email, but added: “For reassurance, Blacon High School is not currently in lockdown.”

In a statement, Chester Constabulary said it was “aware of an email which had been sent to a number of schools in Chester and Ellesmere Port which made threats to pupils and staff”.

It added: “An investigation has been launched and officers have been attending schools to provide reassurance.”

Detective Chief Inspector Justin Hancock said: “We would like to reassure parents that this is believed to be malicious and we are doing everything we can to locate the person responsible for these emails.”

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