A MAN has pleaded not guilty to causing a bomb hoax which led to rush-hour chaos in Ipswich.

Anthony Bond

A MAN has pleaded not guilty to causing a bomb-hoax which led to rush-hour chaos in Ipswich.

Martin Lambourne, 52, of no fixed abode, appeared before Ipswich Crown Court today.

It follows an incident where a suitcase was placed outside the entrance of South East Suffolk Magistrates Court in the town on Wednesday April 1. The word 'bomb' was written on the suitcase in large black letters.

It led to chaos in central Ipswich with Civic Drive closed to traffic shortly before 8am. Police officers also closed off Elm Street as a precaution and motorists were forced to find alternative routes. The police station, opposite the magistrates' court, was also evacuated after the discovery.

A date for trial is yet to be set.