The Royal Navy Bomb Squad arrived in Sidmouth at around dusk to remove a thumbnail-sized bullethead spotted in the town, described by experts as a ‘one-inch short projectile’.
The bomb squad checked the object at the scene, and took it away, confirming it had not contained any explosive.
The Royal Navy team thanked the public for their vigilance, reporting the object to the emergency services.
A Royal Navy spokesman said: “It was the size of a thumbnail bullethead. It was a one-inch short projectile, there was no explosive inside.
“The Royal Navy Bomb Disposal team carried out a quick check and took it away. The experts found no explosives.”
He added: “We would like to thank the astuteness of the public for calling the police. This time it was nothing, but if people find something in the future, our message is please don’t hesitate to call.”
Police closed off the town centre after the object was reported, ordering pedestrians to find alternative routes near Russell Street and Mill Street, sending them away from the cordoned-off areas.
Some shoppers were told to stay inside while police taped off the High Street. The road between Fore Street and Mill Street was also closed.
The police cordon was in place ahead of the arrival of the Bomb Squad’s arrival from Devonport, Plymouth.
Passers-by reported seeing police taping off areas of the town, but officers offered no explanation when asked what was happening.
A Police spokesperson said "Police were notified at around 3.35pm on Monday 24 March to High Street, Sidmouth, following reports of a suspected unexploded ordnance being located.
Officers attended and a 100m cordon was put around the area. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit attended the scene and removed the item. Road closures and cordons were lifted at around 6pm".
Smelly Exeter car park makeover postponed
Your views wanted on nature in Exeter and how we can all support it
Friction erupts as major development plan for Devon district rumbles on
Your views needed on improving air quality in Exeter
Matt Taylor returns to Exeter City
Exeter stalker who left victim and housemates terrified is jailed
Tell Ottery St Mary Town Council about your shopping habits!
Devon town’s beach rugby organisers aiming for rematch
