The offices of Epping Forest District Council were cordoned off this morning following the discovery of a suspicious package in the building.

Police were called to the building in High Road, Epping at around 9.30am following reports that an envelope containing white powder had been received.

The area in which the package was discovered was evacuated and remained cordoned off while police enquiries took place.

Officers ascertained that the mysterious powder was a harmless substance and no one had suffered any ill-effects.

Leader of Epping Forest District Council, Cllr Chris Whitbread, said: “I want to commend the people involved in the discovery of the package who acted with calm level-headedness and professionalism.

“As a council we practice our business continuity plans to ensure we know exactly what to do in such circumstances.

"Our top priority is always to keep everyone safe, after which it is a matter of minimising disruption to our customers.

“It is disappointing that we have to make such plans but I was very pleased to see the system work so well.

“I also want to thank Essex Police for a rapid and excellent response.”

Essex Police have been contacted for a comment.