Brent Cross shopping centre was shut down this morning as sniffer dogs and specialist units were sent over a “threatening email”.

The Metropolitan Police were called to a report of a bomb threat at the shopping centre today (December 28) at 9.20am.

Officers carried out a search of the building, which had been closed to the public, as a precaution.

Workers at different shops told this paper that it was mainly staff who were evacuated as it was so early in the morning.

Times Series: Police outside Brent CrossPolice outside Brent Cross (Image: @NW2_RA)

One Moss worker said: “The alarm went off, we were told to leave and we didn’t really know what was going on.

“We just had to wait to hear from the communications chat that it was safe to come in.”

Times Series: Traffic getting into Brent CrossTraffic getting into Brent Cross (Image: Joseph Reaidi)

Many others at Brent Cross said they were stuck in traffic “for ages” as roads to the centre were blocked off, with buses and cars diverted.

The centre was eventually reopened to employees at 11.20am, with customers allowed in later.

Many shops were still in the process of reopening or had the shutters down at 11.30am.

Times Series: Customers outside M&SCustomers outside M&S (Image: Joseph Reaidi)

Firefighters were called in to assist other emergency services at Brent Cross.

The London Fire Brigade was called at 9.49am and the incident was over for firefighters by 11am. Two fire engines from Hendon Fire Station attended the scene.

Nothing suspicious was found and the incident was stood down, the Met said.

Enquiries into the circumstances are ongoing.