.. But no device found during Wellington Street drama

Major disruption was caused to traffic and many retail businesses as part of Wellington Street was closed while Army bomb experts investigated a suspect package. However a police spokesperson confirmed to the Times that nothing untoward was found.

Mayor of Ballymena Alderman Maurice Mills has warned people to be wary of where they leave their bags and articles, however he also slammed those who by their actions have created a climate of fear.

Mayor Mills added: “We regret that people seek to go about their business in this way, it causes disruption to businesses and everyone in the town.

“Bomb scares such as this one are a reminder of the past, but this is a past we don’t want to back look on, the people of Ballymena are looking forward to a future together.

“These people are trying to drag us back but this is to their own personal regret. Ballymena is aiming for city status, and we are all committed to doing what’s good for the all the people of the borough.”

The scare came at a prime time for the retail trade in the town which, according to the Chamber of Commerce, is already feeling the chill wind of economic cut-backs and financial uncertainty.

Just this week, the Chamber urged citizens to ‘shop local’ in a bid to bolster the retail sector. More on page 5