A MAN who dumped his bag in Worcester city centre because it was too heavy sparked a bomb scare.

Police were alerted to a black bag in the CrownGate's bus station concourse at 8.48am on Saturday while an automatic fire alarm, which followed soon after, separately called firefighters to the scene.

Officers spotted 'salt residue' on the bag, heightening concern over the contents, and a 100m circle around the scene - including the bus station - was cordoned off and evacuated.

But the bag's owner soon approached police and admitted it was his.

He was taken to the station for questioning and 'extensive background checks' before satisfying officers he had only temporarily left the bag, because it was too heavy to carry around the city.

"It wasn't the wisest thing to do," said Insp John Beddows, of Worcester Police.

"It was a smooth operation between the police, fire brigade and CrownGate security. A lot of people in the city were inconvenienced but it's better to be safe than sorry."

The holdall contained clothes and personal items and the situation was resolved at 10am.

No one was charged after the incident but market traders were left out of pocket.

"People were stopped from coming to the market and I lost money," said Dave, from Dave's Fruit and Veg stall. "Whoever left his bag there should do six months."

Buses were directed on alternative routes through the city and dropped off passengers away from the station before queuing in The Cross.

Carolyn Mantle, shopping centre manager, was pleased with the reaction from all those involved.

"The police response was fantastic and our staff and tenants reacted well," she said. "Unfortunately they lost an hour of business, but we have to act on police instructions."